Thomas R. McCleese Sr.

Thomas R. McCleese Sr., 68, of Bucyrus died early Saturday, April 20, 2019 at Bucyrus Community Hospital after years of declining health.



He was born in Bucyrus on April 14, 1951 to the late Thomas G. McCleese Jr. and Betty L. (Foreman) McCleese Naylor. He served honorably in the US Marine Corps from 1970-1974. Tom lived most of his life in Cambridge, Ohio where he worked for Seminole Tubular before suffering a stroke that left him unable to work. He had recently moved back to Bucyrus to be closer to his sons and their families and was able to do so thanks to being cared for wholeheartedly by the mother of his sons, Juanita Richardson.



Tom is survived by son, Thomas (Janine) McCleese Jr. and children, Chase, Caleb, Christian, and Madyson; son, Ken (Sarah) McCleese and children, Isaac, Isaiah, Laban, and Eli; daughter, Amanda (McCleese) Martin and children, Annabelle, Eddie, and Zoe. He gave his heart to the Lord and loved his family, especially his grandchildren. They thought the world of him, and he left an imprint in each one of their hearts. He was very proud of his children and their accomplishments. He had a kind heart and was always so polite. He was tough and fought hard for the last 10 plus years until the very end. He was very admired, loved, and will be deeply missed.



In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Karen K. Ray and grandson, Caden Thomas McCleese.



Tom will be laid to rest privately with his father and sister in Northwood Cemetery, Cambridge, Ohio where military rites will be rendered by the US Marine Corps Honor Guard.



If you wish to make a memorial donation, please make it payable to the organization of your choosing and give through Wise Funeral Service, 129 W. Warren St., Bucyrus, Ohio 44820. Memories and photos can be shared on Tom’s Tribute Wall.