John Albert Mcclary

John Albert McClary passed away unexpectedly on Monday October 10, 2022. He was 92 years young.

He was married to Janet R. McClary for 54 years and was father to two daughters, grandfather to three and great grandfather to four.
John was born on February 15th, 1930, in Ravenna, Ohio to Clarice and Daniel McClary. A "Rough Rider" and graduate of Theodore Roosevelt High School in 1948, he went on to graduate from Kent State University with a B.A. (1952) and B.S. in Education (1953). From there he travelled to California where he settled in Cucamonga and began a lifelong career in education, beginning as a 7th grade teacher and retiring as district administrator for Central School District. His formal training also included a Master of Arts degree and administrative credential in education. A beloved teacher, he was a lifelong learner and was always looking forward to the next adventure. His ability to master computer and cell phone technology (some swearing included) right up to the end was inspiring. John enjoyed many interests including extensive domestic and international travel, hiking, gardening, painting, spending time at his cabin in Idyllwild, playing the organ (and the lottery!) and volunteering at state parks and Yosemite. His heaven on earth was at the top of Half Dome. He proudly and often proclaimed that he had hiked the trail 17 times, completing the last trip in his 70's at an elder hiker's speed.

John is survived by his wife Janet, daughters Erica Kurta (David) and Craig Garrett (Curt), grandchildren Jaime Hass (Michael), Kevin Kurta (Gabby), Kerry Clark (Cooper) and great grandchildren Lucy Hass, Henry Hass, Andrew Kurta and Sawyer Clark. Beloved extended family members include nieces, nephews and cousin.

A private ceremony for the family will be held at Forest Lawn West Covina on Wednesday morning November 2, 2022. Friends are invited to a Celebration of John's Life in the Assembly Room of the Social Center at Mt. San Antonio Gardens (located at 900 E. Harrison Ave in Pomona) beginning at 3:00 PM. There will be a wine and cheese reception immediately following.

In lieu of gifts and flowers, honor John's memory by visiting a national park sometime this year, perhaps keeping his words in mind:
"LIFE HAS BEEN GOOD! Travel has always been important. Trips to Egypt, 3 times to Turkey, a Panama Canal Cruise, and a walking tour of Switzerland. Loved Elderhostels and Grand Circle Tours. Hobbies: hiking, painting and playing the organ for my own amusement. The pages of the calendar are flying away too fast!"