Jim McCleary, 77

Formerly of Blue Earth It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that the family of Jim McCleary announces that he passed away on Monday, Nov. 5, 2018 at the age of 77.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife, Barbara McCleary; as well as his children, Kelly Carolan (Bill Voss), Ryan (Allison), Eric (Heidi), Laura McCleary, and step-children, Zoe (Mark) Byrnes and Peter Nagell. Jim adored and cherished his six grandchildren, who loved every moment spent with their Grandpa Jim.

Jim was born and raised in Blue Earth, with his three siblings, Chuck (Pat) McCleary, Bill (Karen) McCleary, and Sue (Frank) Strobl. Following graduation from Blue Earth High School in 1959, he enlisted in the US Army, serving in the Signal Corps. He was stationed in Worms, Germany from 1959-1962. Upon returning to the United States, Jim completed his undergraduate degree from the University of Minnesota.

In his later adulthood, Jim earned his MBA from the University of St. Thomas and ran two successful businesses, Ameridata and LogiSolve, Inc. He volunteered countless hours at Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge, helping people struggling with drug and alcohol addiction. Most recently, Jim’s passion for helping others led him to serve as a licensed professional psychotherapist and certified business coach in Minnesota and Florida.

Jim will be remembered for the way he took care of others, his fun-loving spirit, and his immense love for his family. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Carissa and his parents, Darrell and Helen McCleary.

Jim loved music, cars and was always one of the first people on the dance floor (and last to leave). He loved to sing and performed for years with a Gospel Quartet. Jim loved spending time with his wife Barb and the rest of their family. He found great joy in creating a special gathering place in Florala, Alabama for his family and friends.

Jim was an energetic life force who’s enthusiasm was balanced by a remarkable capacity for love and tenderness.

He is loved and will be missed by many. A Celebration of Life will be held in the Twin Cities in early 2019. Contributions in Jim’s memory can be sent to Feed My Starving Children (FMSC.org).