William George Cleary

William Cleary, a lifelong resident of Bennington, NH, passed away on January 29, 2026 at the age of 83 after a long fight with cancer. He was a friend to all and, and in his final days, he was visited often by his many friends and family members and surrounded by love.

Bill was born in Peterborough NH on August 7, 1942 to his parents Walter D. Cleary and Marion J Griswald. He graduated from Peterborough High School in 1960.

Bill worked at G.H. Edwards & Sons for 18 years. He then went on to purchase the company with his business partner Harry Clough, and they started Clough & Cleary Construction. He worked on the Bennington and Antrim water and sewer systems and was subcontracted for the Monadnock Paper Mills for over 50 years. He also did a lot of work for Richard Verney at Verney Farms. He was a man of many trades and was a licensed plumber, electrician, and certified welder. He always joked that the next job would pay off his backhoe.

Bill always looked forward to hunting season and his many trips to Pennsylvania and Vermont with his hunting buddies. He also enjoyed fishing and low-riding with his friends. He was an avid fan of the Red Sox and Patriots, trying his best to watch all their games. This year Bill really enjoyed looking at his Christmas tree. His selfless service to others was admirable. He was always one phone call away for anyone that needed help. He was a problem-solver who could troubleshoot any situation. Bill made friends anywhere he went and was loved and respected by all. Bill had lived on the same road his whole life right next door to his sister.

Bill is survived by his wife, Sandra (Paige) Cleary, his children, James Cleary and his wife Carol, Pamela Cleary and Randy Cleary and his wife Lori. He is also survived by an abundance of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. He is predeceased by his brother, James W. Cleary, his sister Joyce Miner and her husband Ken Miner and his parents.

A Funeral service will be held at the Bennington Congregational Church at 10:00am on Saturday, February 7, 2026. It will be followed by a Celebration of Life at the Monadnock Country Club in Peterborough, NH from 11:00-2:30pm.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Bills name to Bennington Sportsmen's Club, Bennington, NH 03442.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Holt-Woodbury Funeral Home. www.holtwoodburyfh.com.