Richard McClelland

Richard (Dick) Harris McClelland, formerly of New Castle, PA, passed away peacefully on November 10th, 2023. He grew up on the family farm. He was the loving husband of Diane (Davidson) McClelland for 52 years until her death on May 24th, 2015.

He graduated from Mt. Jackson High School in 1959, then graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering from Case Institute of Technology in 1963. By 1969 he received a Masters of Science degree in Engineering Administration from Case Institute. Dick accepted a job with East Ohio Gas, a part of Consolidated Gas, until his retirement in 1995.

Dick was determined to rise through technical competence and managerial proficiency in his 37-year career. He became a target manager for Consolidated's fuel cell technology. Dick worked at FMC's Princeton research lab to produce both synthetic gas and oil. He testified before congress and got permission to do cogeneration. By 1995 he retired from Consolidated Gas. In his retirement he enjoyed his work with rural co-ops and developed transportable fuel cells.

Dick was preceded in death by his wife, Diane (Davidson) McClelland; daughter, Allyson McClelland; his parents, Harris and Elva (Hohmann) McClelland; and his brother, Philip McClelland. He is survived by his granddaughter, Abby Hoy; sister, Kathleen Lindman; son-in-law, Allen Hoy Sr., sister-in-law, Pam McClelland; and nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Richard was an avid reader who made many trips to the local library. While he traveled the world he enjoyed taking pictures of the beautiful scenery. He loved all of his black cats throughout the years, which were all named "Troubles." If there was any challenge to solve, he furiously problem solved and eventually worked out a solution. He will be remembered for his brilliance and his work in the fuel cell industry.

Family will receive friends at H.P. Brandt Funeral Home, 1032 Perry Highway, Pittsburgh, PA 15237 on Saturday, November 18, 2023 from 11am until the start of the funeral service at 12pm. Interment to follow at United Cemetery.