McCleary

Melvin R. “Mel” McCleary, 93, of Grove City, formerly of West Loop Hollidaysburg, passed away at his residence Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025.

Mel was born in Altoona on Dec. 13, 1931, to James W. and Lillie E. (Wertz) McCleary.

He married Eleanor R. Brubaker on Jan. 20, 1964. She preceded him in death on June 24, 2010.

Mel grew up in Hollidaysburg and was raised in the Protestant faith. He served in the U.S. Army, 1st Calvary, 8th Regiment, Company C, as a corporal from 1952 to 1954.

During his younger years, he worked for his uncle at a local lumber yard. Later, he drove truck for Ward Trucking for 29 years, which eventually brought him to the local area.

He was a member of the Harrisville American Legion, Post No. 852.

Mel enjoyed going to Ward Trucking Retirees dinners, bowling and visiting with friends.

He is survived by four children, Connie (Ed) Butler, Sandra (Kim) McCarl, Sondra (David) Vollmer and Melvin R. (Denise) McCleary Jr.; eight grandchildren; and great-grandchildren. Mel is also survived by his caregiver, Rita Morgan, and her grandchildren, Kali (Darren) Carter and children, Alexsis, Kayla, Preston and Heather (Jay) Hertzog, who was like a daughter to Mel.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; a sister, Carol Berry; and a brother, Ronald McCleary.

MCCLEARY — Visitation hours for Melvin R. “Mel” McCleary, who died Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday, Sept. 8, at CUNNINGHAM FUNERAL HOME, 306 Bessemer Ave., Grove City.

Funeral services will be at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9, at the funeral home, with the Rev. Willard Morse officiating.

Burial will be in Prairie Cemetery, Harrisville, with full military honors.

Memorial donations in Mel’s memory may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.

Online condolences at cunninghamfhgc.com.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.