J. Michael Cleary, 64, of Ashkum, passed away Sunday September 23rd at Presence St. Marys Hospital in Kankakee following a short illness. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday Sept. 29, 2018 at Assumption BVM Catholic Church in Ashkum with Revs James Holup and Douglas Hauber officiating. Burial will be in the Ashkum Catholic Cemetery. Friends may call from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m.on Friday, September 28, 2018 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton. Memorials may be made to AIDS Legal Council of Chicago or Vital Bridges of Chicago .

Mr. Cleary was born on May 20, 1954 at Kankakee, the son of Jeremiah J. and Victoria Leszczewicz Cleary. They preceded him in death along with one brother, Patrick Cleary. Mr. Cleary is survived by his life partner, John Friend of Ashkum. He is also survived by a sister and two nieces, Ann E. Flink and Katie Jo Curtis.

Mr. Cleary was a member of Assumption BVM Catholic Church in Ashkum. He was a graduate of St. Joseph College in Rensselaer, IN and had worked for over 30 years in the Medical Industry and was currently an advocate for the aged. Mike was good natured, enjoyed life and was always willing to give anyone a helping hand.