Charles “Mac” McKain, 67, of Indian Mound, TN, passed away on August 31, 2024, in a tragic accident while building a future for his family on the farm.
The greatest investment one can make is in the service of causes and beliefs that extend far beyond oneself. Through selfless actions, we reflect on the person we aspire to be. When we think of those who embodied this spirit, no one stands out more than Charles Ray McKain.
Mac was born and raised in Mooresville, IN, with his three brothers before joining the United States Army at the age of 18. Shortly after his enlistment, he married Petra in 1977. A Gulf War Veteran, Charles served his country for 20 years as a pilot, test pilot, and maintenance officer, retiring as Chief Warrant Officer IV, proudly earning his Master Wings. Charles spent most of his civilian career as a contract worker at Fort Campbell Army Base, rising to the rank of project manager at Amentum.
Mac was best known for showing his love through acts of service. For Petra, it was building the farm home of their dreams, tending to the pigs and chickens, and creating convenience. For his children and grandchildren, he set the example by always showing up for life’s most important moments and teaching life lessons through hard work and craftsmanship. For his faith, he served as a member and Assistant Director of Hopewell Community Church, working tirelessly to ensure his brothers and sisters had a safe place to worship and serve.
When Mac was not serving others, he was counting down the days to his newly-found vacation of choice—cruising!
He is preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Wilma McKain. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Petra McKain; his brothers, Bruce McKain (Karola), Dale McKain (Lori), and Robbie McKain (Remy Alipante); his daughter, Eva Marie Behrns (Jeremy); his son, Charles “Chuck” McKain Jr. (Joyce); his grandchildren, Austin McKain (Erin Leigh), Mason McKain (Madison), and Charles “Charlie” Sullivan Jr. (Kylee Ammann); his great-grandchild, Teagan McKain; many nieces and nephews, and his adopted sister, Brenda Edwards (Bill).
Pallbearers: Robbie McKain, Malaci McKain, Chuck McKain, Jeremy Behrns, Austin McKain, Mason McKain, and Charlie Sullivan.
A funeral service will be held on Monday, September 9, 2024, at 11:00 AM at the chapel of Neal Tarpley Parchman Funeral Home. Visitation will be Sunday, September 8, 2024, from 1:00 PM until 5:00 PM and Monday, September 9, 2024, from 9:00 AM until the hour of service at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Kentucky Veterans Cemetery West.
Arrangements are entrusted to Neal Tarpley Parchman Funeral Home.