Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, July 28, l904

JOHN B. MCCLEARY was born in Richland County, Ohio, Dec. 7th, l830, and died in Des Moines, Iowa, July l5, l904, aged 73 years, 7 months and 8 days. From Ohio he came with his parents to Jefferson County, Iowa, June 4, l838, remaining in Iowa until l850 when he went to the gold fields of California. There he worked in the mines for l6 years and by careful economy saved the means with which to secure the splendid farm in this county he possessed so long.

While in California, he was married to NANCY HALE, of Eldora County, May l8, l854, to whom were born two children, WILLIAM J., whose home is in Colfax, Cal., and ALBERT L, who resides here. His wife died July l, l859. He came from California to Decatur County, Iowa, in l866, and on Sept. 9, l869, was joined in marriage to MARY L. HITCHCOCK who still survives him. Two children were born to this union both of whom died in childhood.

For 38 years MR. MCCLEARY has been a much respected citizen of this community, residing on his farm four miles south of town until, because of his failing health, he moved to his property in town. During this time he has had every evidence of the good will of his neighbors. For two years he was township clerk and for various periods of time was also school director, assessor, secretary of school board, justice of the peace and treasurer of the Decatur County Mutual Insurance Co. He was also an honored member of the Masonic Fraternity belonging to Temple Lodge, No. 1170. His connection with this fraternity dated from l869. Brother MCCLEARY was a prominent and useful member of the High Point Methodist Episcopal Church. For many years he has held the offices of both steward and trustee. He was a consistent, liberal Christian man and his loss will be deeply felt by the church. His wife, two sons, one brother, M.V. MCCLEARY, and three sisters, survive him. His memory is a precious heritage.

A large concourse of friends attended the funeral which was conducted from the High Point M.E. Church. The services were in charge of Temple Lodge, and the sermon was preached by the Pastor, E.C. Newland.

--GARDEN GROVE EXPRESS.

Copied by Nancee(McMurtrey)Seifert
June 2, 2003