James K. "Coach Mack" McClelland

James K. “Coach Mack” McClelland, age 79, beloved husband for 57 years to Ann, nee Bolke. Loving father of James (Jennifer) McClelland, Keith (Mallory) McClelland and Traci (Scott) Fries. Cherished grandfather of A.J., Connor, Keith Jr., Kyle, Myles, Keira, Chase, Christian, Callie and Chloe. Dearest great-grandfather of Genevieve. Devoted son of the late James and Margaret (nee Galella) McClelland. Dear brother of Sharon Kotecki. Fond uncle of Alicyn (Josh) Kosa.

Jim loved sports. He was a beloved football coach to many with coaching stints at Holy Ghost Grammar School in South Holland, IL, South Suburban College, Leydon Lions Semi Professional Football and Lincoln Way Patriots Semi Professional Football. Jim was also a lifelong basketball coach and played competitively until he was 72 years old! He was also into horse racing from the time he was a young man.

Jim enjoyed traveling throughout his life and his most favorite vacation spots included Las Vegas, Naples and New Orleans.

Jim was a successful real estate investor and mentored and gave advice to thousands over his 55 year career. He was a tireless worker, working long hours. He built several successful businesses over the years including one of the largest providers of investment properties in the country.

Jim was a great listener. He always had an “open door” policy. Anyone anytime could knock on his door and he would patiently sit and listen. Jim was an eternal optimist and would always strive to find the bright side of every situation.

He was selfless. He never wore jewelry or expensive suits and never drove around in fancy cars. His entire life revolved around simply caring for his wife and family whom he loved.

Jim doted on his beloved wife Ann and worked tirelessly to make sure she was taken care of at all times.

He entered every room with a smile on his face. Jim never asked for help or sympathy. He was a real warrior who never let on when he was under any physical or mental strain.

Visitation Tuesday, November 3, 2026 from 3-8 p.m. at Colonial Chapel, 15525 S. 73rd Ave. (155th/Wheeler Dr. & Harlem) Orland Park, IL. Family and Friends are invited to meet directly at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 15050 S. Wolf Road, Orland Park, IL on Wednesday, November 4, 2026 for at Mass 11:00 a.m.

Express your thoughts and condolences at colonialchapel.com 708-532-5400