LEWISTON – Russell Eugene (Gene) McCleary, 66, died peacefully Sept. 13, at St. Marguerite d’Youville Pavilion, where he had been a patient the past few weeks.

He was born Feb. 1, 1940, in Lewiston, the son of Aubrey L. and Helen P. (Green) McCleary.

He attended schools in Poland and graduated from Edward Little High School, Class of 1958. After graduating from high school, he worked in the printing business.

In 2001, he retired from the Kennebec Journal in Augusta. During his early teenage years he was a member of the Boy Scout Troop at the Auburn Advent Christian Church.

He enjoyed playing cards, going to the car races and watching NASCAR races on TV.

He will be remembered as a loving brother and a friend to many people.

Survivors include his sisters, Gloria Thiboutot and husband, Joseph, of Brunswick and Charlotte McCleary of Poland; many uncles, aunts, cousins, nephews and nieces.

He was predeceased by his parents in the past two years.

The family would like to express their sincere thanks to the Nurses and C.N.A.s on 2E at d’Youvill for the excellent care they gave our brother while he was there. Also to Moe Perron R.N. and Sister Mona Guerrette for your kindness and compassion shown to the family on Wednesday morning.