James F Cleary

James F. Cleary, 92, of County Highway 126, Amsterdam, NY; passed away Sunday, February 9, 2020 at River Ridge Living Center in Amsterdam.

Born in the Town of Hartwick, Otsego County on October 30, 1927, he was the son of the late Joseph M. and Bertha M. Cleary.

Jim was an honorably discharged United States Navy veteran serving in active duty from May 30, 1945 in the Asiatic Pacific Theater, stationed at Orote, Guam until being discharged on August 18, 1946. Jim was the recipient of the Asiatic Pacific Theater Medal, American Theater Medal and the Victory Medal.

Jim worked for many years at Sikorsky Aircraft in Stratford, CT; during the 1950’s and most of the 60’s. In the mid 60’s he got into Civil Service and started working at the New Haven, CT; Veterans Administration Hospital and continued his employment in VA Hospitals in Texas, Arizona and Virginia, retiring from Civil Service in 1992, before finally moving back east and settling down for good in Amsterdam.

Jim was a very kind, easy going guy with a big heart, always there to help you out if needed. He loved telling jokes to Jim Jr. He enjoyed reading the daily newspaper and loved watching sports, especially his favorite teams; the St. Louis Cardinals, NY Rangers and the NY Giants. He also enjoyed outings with his family, going for rides and the casinos.

Jim was married to Carol Joan Gately Cleary on September 27, 1958. Carol predeceased Jim by a little over 10 years on November 1, 2009 after 53 years of marriage. Jim is survived by three sons, James F. Cleary Jr. Joseph E. Cleary and Kevin S. Cleary all of Amsterdam

Jim was also predeceased by two brothers, Arthur J. Cleary and Joseph H. Cleary and his only sister, Mildred J. Cleary.

Friends are invited to a visitation Friday February 14, 2020 at the Riley Mortuary, Inc., 110 Division Street, Amsterdam, NY 12010 from 12 noon until 1:00 p.m., where a funeral service will be held with Rev. O. Robert De Martinis officiating.

Interment will take place at St. Stephen’s Cemetery this spring.
To send online condolences to the family, visit www.rileymortuaryinc.com