Stan McGrain

Stanley Clark McGrain

Whether you knew him as “Stan the Man”, “Stan-Lee”, “Poop”, “The Big Galut”, or just the smiling face behind the counter at Hyde’s, you would consider yourself lucky to have met him.

Stan was able to spend his last days surrounded by his loved ones. He passed away peacefully at home on Sunday June 16, 2024, with his children by his side.

He was born on October 11, 1955 in Saranac Lake NY, to the late Joanne Clark McGrain and William “Bub” McGrain. Stan was raised in Saranac Lake and truly treasured growing up in this small mountain town. The spirit of Saranac Lake was at the core of who he was. He spoke of childhood memories with such fondness. He often reminisced about his family’s state camp on Follensby Pond, where he learned to fish and swim. He also loved spending time at his aunt and uncle’s camp on Sacandaga Lake, where he learned how to waterski. In later years, he would often mention how lucky he was to grow up in a time where technology didn’t get in the way of old-fashioned fun. 

Besides enjoying the outdoors, sports were another important part of Stan’s life growing up in Saranac Lake. He was an exceptional athlete in high school, collecting many accolades along the way. He loved most sports but especially basketball, football and baseball.

Stan moved away from Saranac Lake in the early 1980’s but always missed the beauty of the Adirondacks. He returned to his hometown with his son in 2006. In his later years, Stan was most happy puttering around his house and property in Bloomingdale. He would spend hours tending to his lawn and garden. He also loved baking and researching his coin collection. 

Stan was always able to overcome hardships in his life by using humor. He was a jokester! He enjoyed making people laugh and for him, laughter was a cure all. His infectious smile will be missed by everyone. 

Stan is survived by his daughter, Casey Hess and her husband Matt; his son Kyle McGrain, his fiancé Amy Pulla and her daughter Kelly; his sister Luanne McGrain and her husband Eric Brauer. 

Calling hours will take place on Thursday June 20, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Fortune Keough Funeral Home in Saranac Lake. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Friday June 21, 2024 at 9:00 am at St. Bernard’s Church in Saranac Lake, with Rev. Martin Cline Officiating. Burial will follow at St. Bernard’s Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Saranac Lake Volunteer Rescue Squad. Family and friends can also share their condolences and memories at fortunekeoughfuneralhome.com.