John "Jock" L. Clarey, Jr.

John “Jock” Clarey, 79, of Portland, MI, passed away on October 21, 2023 doing one of his favorite things - watching MSU football. Jock was born on October 13, 1944, to John and Kathleen McNamara Clarey in Kenosha, WI. Jock lost the love of his life, wife Vicki, in 2020, and we find comfort knowing they are reunited once again. Jock is survived by children Kelly (Patrick) Blake, John (Lisa) Clarey, and Colleen Clarey (Jeff); 7 grandchildren: Tyler (Kiley) Blake, Kelsey (Alex) Newman, Katie Blake, Chloe Lambert, Chet and Elizabeth Parks, and Hunter Simon; 4 great-grandchildren: Holden and Zoey Blake and Rosie and Myla Newman. Jock is also survived by siblings Ann (Jack) Anderson, Katie (Sam) Valenti, Patly Clarey-Konzen, Tim (Kathi) Clarey, and in-laws Sue (Steven) Allerding, friends who are family (Hubers, Todds, Monte and many more), several cousins, nieces, nephews, and his beloved golf group, “The Wolves”! We would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the greatest neighbors ever, Tom and Julie Seitters.

Jock was an educator who passionately believed in always doing right by children. He was a teacher, athletic director, principal and superintendent of schools. Jock was proud of his Irish heritage and loved every minute of his voyage to Ireland.  He was a Michigan State Spartan through and through, and passionately followed the football and basketball teams.  Jock’s dedication to his family was unwavering, and his role as “Papa Jock” was one he cherished above all else.  Papa Jock will be deeply missed, but his wise words, humor and acts of kindness will never be forgotten.  His memory will live in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing this remarkable man! The Memorial Service will be conducted by Rev. Dr. Marilyn V. Danielson on Friday, October 27, 2023 at 12:00 p.m. at the Lehman Funeral Home, 210 E. Bridge St., Portland. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice or to the Portland Athletic Boosters in memory of Jock. Online condolences may be made at ww.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.

The Memorial Service honoring Jock will be livestreamed on the Lehman Funeral Homes - Portland Facebook page beginning at 12:00 p.m.

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