Dr. McClure Day, 92, of Damariscotta, passed away peacefully in his home on Aug. 4, surrounded by his loved ones. The son of Maurice “Jake” Day and Beatrice Darling Day, he was born in Cambridge, Mass., on Dec. 17, 1917.
McClure attended schools in Damariscotta, and Laguna Beach, Cal. He graduated from the University of Maine with a B.S. degree in Animal Husbandry. After then serving in WWII and being discharged as captain in 1946, he received the degree of Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Michigan State University. Dr. Day then practiced medicine in Damariscotta, serving the surrounding areas for 35 years, retiring in 1985.
“Mac” Day was an honor roll member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, as well as an honorary member of the Maine Veterinary Medical Association. He also served on the State Board of Veterinary Examiners under Governor Kenneth Curtis.
At the age of 16 Dr. Day was one of the original members of the Lincoln County Rifle Club. After his service in WWII, he was a member of the American Legion.
Mac’s happiest times were spent with his buddies in the famous “Jake’s Rangers,” a group recognized in Field and Stream magazine with articles written by Edmond Ware Smith about the group’s antics and adventures in the great outdoors. He loved showing and driving his registered Hackney ponies in many New England equine events, and brought joy to onlookers at local parades.
Mac’s house was a home to all creatures great and small, a place filled with laughter, activity, and love. His home has been described as “Lucy and Ricky meet Noah’s Ark.”
McClure Day is survived by his “full of hell and heaven” wife, Ann Stone Day; son, Daniel and wife Sandra; daughter, Marcia Morton and husband Peter Morton, the children of his first wife Jane. They in turn gave him five grandchildren, Justin, Matthew, Darryl, Clancy, and Travis, who in turn gave him 10 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a brother, Richard and wife Barbara Damon-Day.
Known to so many friends and pet owners in Lincoln County, Dr. Day was loved by all who placed their pets’ lives into his kind and gentle hands. In return he gave his love. McClure would be pleased if you would plant an evergreen tree, walk a dog or cat at the Lincoln County Animal Shelter, or assist in raising Damariscotta’s old clock and bell tower.
Graveside service held Aug. 9 at Hillside Cemetery in Damariscotta.
Condolences for the family may be expressed by visiting www.StrongHancock.com.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main St., Damariscotta.
