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Clarence (Jack) Leary, Jr. M.D., went peacefully to his rest on January 2, 2012, with his wife, Elsie, of 66 years at his side. He was 90 years of age. Jack was born on June 9, 1921, east of Lodi on Hibbard Lane, which was named for his maternal grand-parents. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence Sr. and Jennie Leary; his sister, Beverly; and his daughter Melissa Pahn.
He attended Harmony Grove School, and graduated from Lodi High in the class of 1939. The family moved to several different towns, but he still "skipped" two grades. In high school he was a runner - and his name was inscribed on one of the trophies on display. On to Pacific Union College, he excelled in Chemistry and was an Assistant Organic Chemistry Instructor. When completing his pre-medical studies he went to Loma Linda University.
Soon World War II was in force. He had started "medicine" and because of his scholastic standing he was chosen by the Army Specialized Training Corps to stay on and finish his training. He went in as a private and completed as a captain. As the war ended, he served in the Veterans Administration.
At this time he met and married Elsie, a student nurse. The wedding took place at "Wee Kirk of the Heather" in Glendale, California.
A few years were spent in "General Practice" in Goldendale, Washington, but the urge to do Orthopedics was strong. Next came a big move to New Orleans, Louisiana, Tulane University. It was a unique experience living there. Then on to Pennsylvania. Amish country was a contrasting experience for children's surgery. Next the trek back to California, Stockton, opening an office there, but commuted to what is now University of California Davis. It was then the Sacramento County Facility. He was in charge of the Orthopedic Department.
During his years of Orthopedic Surgery, here in Lodi he held a number of leadership roles. He served two terms as Chief of Staff at Lodi Memorial Hospital. He was an executive officer of the board - founders of the Lodi Outpatient Surgery Center and a chairman of an early day health Foundation. Dear to his heart was time invested with Loel Center as chairman of the board. He conducted "Stop Smoking Classes" over a period of time. Interested in Children's education, he was on the SDA Elementary School board, also as its chairman. At the Seventh-day Adventist church he taught a Bible Class for thirty years, and was an elder. A colorful mission trip to Columbia, South America was a medical work with colleagues, into the jungle, rivers via dugout canoes.
Later his "Dr. Jack" column in the Lodi News-Sentinel held forth for seven years. He was careful to research items presented.
He enjoyed golf with buddies, had two "holes-in-one" at Woodbridge Golf and Country Club. Getting that Boston Whaler into the Delta was fun. Trips and stays at Sun Valley, Idaho, were much anticipated, the skiing with family and friends - the beauty of the place.
Although so busy, dedicated to his work, his patients, and certainly to his family and friends, he had a warm and loving heart, willing to go the "second mile".
Elsie and the family wish to extend heartfelt gratitude to Fairmont Rehabilitation for their kindness and warmth to him.
Jack's survivors include his wife, Elsie; son Kevin (Heidi) Leary; two daughters Jenanne (Robert) Rodriguez and Shauna (John) Unser. Grandchildren, Chase and Jacqueline Leary, Loni Unser, Trevor and Christopher Phan; two step grandchildren, Jonathan Rodriquez and Erica Hazlett; two greats, Madelina and Christian Hazlett.
In lieu of flowers a suggested memorial: Lodi Educational Endowment Fund (LEEF), benefiting Lodi Academy and Elementary School Scholarships and projects. P.O. Box 272, Lodi, CA 95241.
A memorial service will be held January 28, at 2:30 P.M. at the English Oaks Seventh-day Adventist Church, 1260 W. Century Blvd, Lodi.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Dear Leary Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of lost. But I also celebrate with you a life gallently lived in love and service.
Judy Saulsbury Cizmar
January 28, 2012
Elsie & Family, I still can't image a world without the wisdom, love and compassion of Jack. He made the world a better place for so many, including mine.
I was blessed to have worked for him for 20+ years, and a forever friend. His life led me and I'm sure many others to the love of our Lord. For he didn't preach,but lived as an example of the life the Lord wanted us to live. Jack always included me as part of his "family". Elise his lifelong love, find peace knowing you were so very loved.
Rest in peace my dear friend....
Gail Berg & Family
January 27, 2012
Dearest Elsie & Family, Dr. Jack was truly one-of-a-kind, a most gentle and compassionate treasure. He could sense when you were troubled and, never judgmental, he always had the perfect story of wisdom to tell that helped. By the end of the story, the answer that you needed was crystal clear. What an extraordinary gift! As you mourn Dr. Jacks passing, please know that he was dearly loved and I will forever cherish the memories we shared. Elsie - you and Jack will always have a special place in my heart. With deepest sympathy, Cynthia (& David Winegarden)
Cynthia Winegarden
January 26, 2012
Dear Elsie, Although I am now in Arizona, I was sorry to read of your husbands passing, I'm sure he is now at in a wonderful place. Love, Diane Burkett
January 24, 2012
Dear Elsie and Family, Addie and I remember Dr. Jack from the Sabbath School class he taught for many years. You both were involved to the extent of treating us as members of the family. Dr. Jack left a legacy of love. What a day that will be on Reserection Morning.
With love....Roy & Addie Macomber
January 22, 2012
Dear Leary Family, I am deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Leary who treated me quite a few years ago and made me feel so comfortable and informed at the time of my medical condition and options he presented to resolve the ortho issue. Later, we would work together at LMH and I had a great respect for Dr. Leary and his bedside manner. My thoughts and prayers are with the family as you mourn his passing and you "celebrate" his life and memories of a talented, caring man and physician. God Bless You.
Audrey Trovinger-Clanton
January 21, 2012
I met Dr. Leary when my mother was briefly at Fairmont in 2008. I remember that when I asked him his name he said "John Smith" . I replied then that my name was "Pocahantas" to which we both chuckled. The few times after then that I spoke with him and his wife, were pleasant and I knew he was a gentleman. I hope he will rest in peace
Trina Minella
January 21, 2012
Elsie - what a privilege to get to know you and your husband. I will miss his smile when I walk into work and getting a hug from you. You are in my prayers.
Lori Bryan
January 21, 2012
I was so saddened to read this in the paper this morning. I still remember Dr. Leary coming to the house one Sunday afternoon, almost 50 years ago, and manipulating my neck. He was one of the kindest, most caring and compassionate persons I have been fortunate to have known and worked with. He will be greatly missed.
John Hunnell
January 21, 2012
Elsie and family,
It was a real privilage to have known Jack. He was a truly kind and caring person. My thoughts are with you all at this time. We know that the hand of God is upon him.
Jody Ives
Jody Ives
January 21, 2012
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