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Melvin R. "Mel" McCleary, 93, of Grove City, formerly of Hollidaysburg, passed away Thursday at his residence. He was born in Altoona, son of the late 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 Cavalry, 8th Regiment, Company C. as a Corporal from 1952-54.
During his younger years, he worked for his uncle at a local lumber yard. Later, he drove trucks at Ward Trucking for 29 years, which eventually brought him to the local area.
Mel was a member of the Harrisville American Legion, Post #852.
He enjoyed going to Ward Trucking Retirees' dinners, bowling and visiting with friends.
Mel is survived by four children: Connie (Ed) Butler, Sandra (Kim) McCarl, Sondra (David) Vollmer and Melvin R. (Denise) McCleary Jr.; and eight grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Mel is also survived by his caregiver, Rita Morgan, and her grandchildren: Kali (Darren) Carter and children: Alexsis, Kayla and Preston; and Heather (Jay) Hertzog, who was like a daughter to Mel.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; a sister, Carol Berry; and a brother, Ronald McCleary.
Friends will be received from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday, Sept. 8, 2025, at Cunningham Funeral Home Inc., 306 Bessemer Ave., Grove City.
A funeral service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Sept.9, 2025, at the funeral home, with the Rev. Willard Morse officiating.
Burial will take place at Prairie Cemetery, Harrisville, with full military honors.
Memorial donations in Mel's memory can be made to the charity of your choice.
Online condolences may be shared at cunninghamfhgc.com.