James "Mike" Michael Mclane

James Michael (Mike) McLane, 66, of Poplar Bluff Missouri, passed away on Friday, August 25th, 2023, at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center, due to complications from pneumonia.

Mike was born on May 1, 1957, in Poplar Bluff Missouri, to proud parents J.P. and Mary (Bounds) McLane.

He had two sisters, Becky (McLane) Brooks and Marla McLane, both of Poplar Bluff.

He also had two children, daughter Stephanie Goodrich, and son Lance McLane. Seven grandchildren, Austin Goodrich, Brian Goodrich, Caitlyn, Jaci, Silas, Statham, and Quincy McLane. Three great grandchildren, Brynlee, Cohen and Theodore (Theo) McLane. One nephew Kyle Brooks and one niece Maggie (Brooks) Holmes. All of Poplar Bluff.

Brother-in-law Allen Brooks, and Daughter-in-law Ashley McLane, both of Poplar Bluff.

Mike was proceeded in death by his father, J.P. McLane and his daughter Stephanie Goodrich.

Mike was an avid collector of all things fancy and probably 50% of every unopened Christmas gift he ever got (if you know, you know). He had an eye for fast cars, slick motorcycles and big rigs that were loaded to the max with the strongest motors, and as many lights and as much chrome as the truck would hold.

After his time of working at McLane Transport, there were still many years of Mike's input, intelligence and time contributing to the family business. He knew the trucking industry well. He was capable of fixing anything, and his taste was top notch. He was a great asset to the trucking world, which also included his love for truck shows. Mike would eventually go on to build his own show truck. He hauled his truck with great pride to shows all over the country. Some of his greatest accomplishments and favorite awards to win, was always “Best of Show” and “People’s Choice”.

Mike had a bit of a wild side... daredevilish (fearless) some might say. If you put him in, or on the seat of anything with a motor, you better believe he would have it completely pegged out, just to see how fast he could go. And if it had two wheels, it mostly likely was only on one for most of the ride. If you ever rode with him, I bet you're thinking of a few good stories you could tell.

He was notorious for being late (if he showed up at all). No matter how aggravating it may have been, the moment you smelled his cologne (because his scent entered the room first) and he peaked his head into the room and you saw his charming grin and sly gate, his ball cap, cowboy boots, and perfectly press jeans, your frustration from his tardiness would instantly disappear.

Everyone loved to spend time with him... and he loved it too, but he also loved his alone time, which in turn, at times, made him a bit of a challenge to those who loved him. He was a very meticulous man. He liked his things in mint condition. And he liked his things to be exactly in its place. If you moved something an eighth of an inch, you better believe he would know immediately.

Mike was a beautiful man, both inside and out. He was loyal to the core, although he may not have said it often, he loved all of us very deeply. His sisters both described him as, "The best brother in the world!". And to his mother, even though he was 66 years old; he was still her baby boy.

Mike gave his life to Jesus and was baptized the week of his passing. These were beautiful moments and answered prayers to us all. He will be greatly missed by everyone. But, knowing that he now resides in Heaven with his dad and his little girl Stephanie, will give us all so much peace within our hearts.

So, when you take that sip of sweet tea while you watch Nascar on the T.V. Or when you see that lit up big rig running down the road, or that Harley rumbling beside you on the highway, remember Mike. Remember the good times. Remember the fast car rides. The wheelies. The times he pulled you like a maniac behind his boat. The knowledge that he shared with you. The times he stood you up, but always made it up to you with his charm. Remember the memories you have of him. Remember Mike, but most of all, remember that, even though, at times he had a funny way of showing it, he loved you. He loved us... And one day soon, when we get to Heaven, we will be greeted by him and all his charming ways, and oh what a beautiful day that will be...

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 29th, 2023, from noon to 1:00 and the Funeral Service will immediately follow starting at 1:00pm at Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services.  A private family burial will take place at the Greenville City Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the family wishes for donations to be made to the Stephanie Goodrich Memorial Nursing Scholarship TRC Endowment Trust or a charity of your choice.

Online condolences can be made to www.cwrfcs.com

Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services is honored to serve the family of James Michael McLane.