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John Clarey, 77, lover of the arts, deliverer of memorable May Day baskets, and founder and sole adjudicator of the Ms. Lake Kilgore pageant, died April 11, 2019, only one month after receiving a cancer diagnosis. John never wanted it said he passed peacefully, and while he died in his sleep he fought to the very last. He approached life as an adventure, and led family and friends through it on bicycle and motorcycle, and with the force of his own passion for living. Among many other things, John will be remembered for a laugh that came easily and brought joy to whatever room he was in and for a kindness and generosity of spirit that led him to support his family and friends, and causes dear to his heart. John had a quick wit, a kind nature and an avid interest in learning. To his core, John's values are defined by what he called the Code of the West: 1. Don't do what's wrong, and more importantly do what's right and needs doing. 2. Protect the weak and cherish those you love. 3. Be grateful. He lived those values every day of his life. John is survived by his wife of 33 years, Robyn Hansen; children John Zender Clarey and Bridget Waldeland; sister Kathleen Clarey; and step-sons Nathan (Sarah) and Brian (Nikki Lockhart) Hansen. A connoisseur of relationships, he is further survived by the broad circle of friends who continue to carry fond memories of their times with him. Not least among these were the many Friends of Bill W who were his strength and support for close to 49 years. He is preceded in death by parents John Marshall and Monica Clarey and by sisters Susan Clarey and Joan Sommerville. A celebration of John's life is scheduled for 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, May 1 at the Minnesota Museum of American Art, 350 Robert St. N., St. Paul. There is a proverb that says no one is truly dead as long as they are remembered. As such, the family requests that in lieu of memorials you purchase something special for yourself -- preferably a piece of art from a living artist -- and think of John when you see it.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by St Paul Pioneer Press.
a loved one
April 30, 2019
Dear Robyn,
I want to express my gratitude for the longstanding friendship my parents, Sybil and Jack Cleary, have had with you and John. John embodied a warmth and calm that was so engaging. He was never at a loss for interesting and fun conversation. He truly had a special place in their hearts.
Our prayers are with you and John.
Martha and Don Carlson
Martha Carlson
April 30, 2019
Dear Robyn,
I send my heartfelt love and condolences to you and your family during this time of the loss of your dear John. I am so fortunate to have had the opportunity to share his love of great art. Blessings to you and there will always be a little part of you both back in Ft. Greene Brooklyn.
Love,
Traci
April 22, 2019
Robert Raymond
April 22, 2019
Both John and Robyn remain two of the most influential people in my life. Always cheerful. Always motivated and encouraging. Together, during my time in the Twin Cities, they did more to enrich my life than anyone else in my history. This is a great loss to humanity, and I mourn his passing more than family. Robyn, my heart is with you. I know you are strong. All my love
Bob Raymond
April 20, 2019
Dearest Robyn,
I am so sorry to hear of John's passing. I will always remember his laugh, his stories, and his smile. He is truly one of the good guys. I'm sending you all of the healing powers your way. I think you should get another plate to go with your plate he got you last year.
Sj Nelson
April 18, 2019
Robyn:
From our high school days at STMA, to our insurance business relationship, to over 30 years of meetings with Bill, John was truly one of the
best people I have ever known in all respects. he will be missed.
larry hendrickson
April 18, 2019
Robyn,I am so sorry for your loss and for all of our loss. John exemplified what we all want to be. His positive smiling nature gave confidence and good will to all.
Jim Barnard (Timelinesantiques)
April 18, 2019
Dear John, rest in peace
Beata & Sven Johansson
April 18, 2019
Robyn,
I am so very sorry. John was such a special person. I will always remember his laugh. Please accept heartfelt condolences from both Steve and me.
Leah
Leah Harvey
April 17, 2019
Robyn,
I never had the pleasure of meeting your husband but his values and beliefs are the reason for your ever lasting bond.
Prayers to you and your family
Gary McCullum
April 17, 2019
Here was a man I met only a few months ago and I thought "Wonderful. I'll have years to get to know this guy better...". When an opportunity like this comes around, don't wait.
Paul Sanford
April 16, 2019
Dear Robyn
I'd like to extend my sincere condolences. That sounds very cliche' ,but please know how truly sorry I am. I never met John in person, but felt like he was a good friend by the many loving stories I heard through Joleen, about him and the amazing adventures you two shared.
Mary Longbehn Ricci
April 15, 2019
Robyn, I am so sorry to learn of John's passing. You two made such a great couple and enjoyed so many adventures together. It has been truly entertaining to watch your accounts and pictures of your trips to so many beautiful and some off beat places via social media. I'm sending you a big digital hug now and hope to give you a hug in person when you are able.
Alice Gonzalo
April 14, 2019
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