Edward William Cleary, 80, of Nelsonville, died on April 4 at Putnam Nursing and Rehabilitation in Holmes.

Ed Cleary
Ed Cleary

Born Feb. 24, 1940, in Newburgh, he was the son of Edward and Sadie (Warren) Cleary.

Ed was the owner and operator of Ed’s Variety Store in Cold Spring and served as the mayor of Nelsonville from 1985 to 1999. He was a life member and past president of Nelsonville Fire Department and president of the McKeel’s Corners Chapel Association. He attended the Cold Spring Baptist Church (later The Church on the Hill). Ed was an aging service aide for the Putnam County Office for Senior Resources for 13 years until his retirement in 2020.

He is survived by his son, Jeffrey Cleary (Michelle) of Waterford; a grandson, Nolan Cleary of Waterford; and a cousin, Chester Warren of Nelsonville.

A memorial service will be held later this year. Memorial donations may be made to the Putnam County Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (spcaputnam.org).

Information provided by McHoul Funeral Home

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Type: Obituary

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4 replies on “Ed Cleary (1940-2020)”

  1. The Town of Philipstown is greatly saddened to hear of the passing of Ed Cleary. Ed was a strong advocate for senior citizens in his position at the Senior Resources Office. I have fond memories of walking the aisles of his store and finding just about anything one could imagine. Ed was a kind and loving person and we will miss him.

    Shea is the Philipstown supervisor.

  2. Cleary’s store offered more than variety. Ed always responded to any request with alacrity. He served his customers with a sweet sincerity giving Cold Spring warmth and charm. Indeed we will miss Ed!

  3. I knew Ed Cleary for the better part of my 81 years. We were not close but certainly friends each time we met. Ed was one of the nicest guys that I ever knew. Many times when I could not find what was needed, Ed would most likely either have “it” or a good substitute. Good memories. Sad for his passing.

  4. Ed was a great example of what makes communities strong and thrive. I only knew him for a few years, but he always greeted others with a smile and calmness that will definitely be missed.

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