Obituary: Thomas E. Cleary

Obituary was published and funeral arrangements were entrusted to the care and direction of the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory​.

Thomas E. Cleary

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Thomas E. Cleary, age 85, of Shorewood, passed away Monday, June 8, 2026 at Lightways Hospice with his loving family by his side.

Born July 18, 1940 in Langdon, ND, he was the son of the late Earl and Leda (Marclin) Cleary. He married the love of his life, Jean (Scott) Cleary, and they enjoyed 61 years of marriage prior to his passing.

She survives, along with their son, Bruce (Vicki) Cleary; their grandchildren, Bruce (Melissa) Chris (Leah) and Kyle (Chelsey), and Ashley; his great-grandchildren, Brooklyn, Gage, Rylynd, Harper, Bentlee, Ella Mae, Sarah and Audrey; his siblings, Karen (Greg) Bimler, the late LuAnn (Bill) Benninghaus, Colleen (the late Jim) Milek, Tim (Marcia) Cleary, Terry (Karen) Cleary, and Cyndy (the late Chuck) Costanza; and many nieces and nephews.

Tom started his career in the pest control business working for the former Lystad’s Pest Control, famous for the distinctive bug on the back of all their trucks, and then continued his career with EcoLab, retiring as a Regional Manager after 40 years of service.

Tom enjoyed woodworking, golfing, working in his yard, and spending time with family. He will be remembered for his gentle and caring personality.

Cremation rites have been accorded and a celebration of Tom’s life will be held at a later date. Interment will be private.

Fred C. Dames Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. For more information, please call (815) 741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at fredcdames.com

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