Wick David McLaren

Wick David McLaren, 79, of St. George, Utah, passed away on January 31, 2026. He was born on October 18, 1946, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, to Wilbur and Mary (Jones) McLaren. 

Wick spent his early childhood in Ann Arbor before moving at the age of ten to Fox Point, Wisconsin. He attended Nicolet High School in Glendale and later continued his education at the university level. He and Janice Frenz were married on September 7, 1968, in Mequon, Wisconsin, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with family, laughter, and adventure. 

Together they made their home in Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin, where they raised their son and daughter. During this time, Wick founded his own business, Cumberland Forest Painting Plus, building both a company and a reputation for hard work and integrity. Later, after moving to Geneva, Illinois, he discovered what became his proudest calling as a master dog behavioral therapist, helping countless families better understand and connect with their pets. 

Wick had a gift for conversation and connection. He loved complimenting others and learning the life stories of the strangers he met wherever he went. He was a lifelong sports fan, a proud season ticket holder of the Green Bay Packers, an animal enthusiast and most of the time he loved golf. He never missed a chance to talk fantasy football (always shouting, “Go Pack Go!”), discussing politics, or sharing a quick-witted, sarcastic joke. His humor and warmth made people feel instantly at ease, and he had a special talent for making others laugh. 

He is survived by his best friend and wife, Janice McLaren of St. George, Utah; his children, Wick McLaren and daughter-in-law Stephanie (Fontaine) McLaren of Calabasas, California, and Kara McLaren of Santa Monica, California; and his cherished grandchildren, Skylar and Kyle McLaren of Calabasas, California. He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilbur and Mary McLaren. 

A celebration of life will be held on March 29, 2026 in St. George, Utah. Details will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary 5001 Angel Canyon Rd, Kanab, UT 84741, (435) 919-3835 or www.bestfriends.org