Michael Lee McCleaf, 61, of Hanover, PA, died Monday, August 11, 2025, at UPMC Hanover Hospital. Michael was born November 29, 1963, in Gettysburg, the son of the late Ronald L. McCleaf and M. Jane (McDermitt) Hutton of Hanover. Michael was a 1982 graduate of Gettysburg Area High School and worked in the construction field most of his life. Michael was most at peace in nature, and this was never more evident than when he resided in Middlebury, VT, where he enjoyed daily walks along the Otter River and riding his bike along country roads. He especially loved horses and was particularly fond of observing them at Morgan Horse Farm (VT) and Hanover Shoe Farm. Michael was an avid fan of the Baltimore Orioles, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Pittsburgh Steelers. He enjoyed working with his hands and would often refurbish someone else’s trash into his treasure. In addition to his mother, Michael is survived by four children: Katherine S. McCleaf of Gettysburg, PA, Nathaniel L. McCleaf (Amanda) of Chambersburg, PA, Cory M. McCleaf of Charlotte, NC, and Kyle T. McCleaf (Jessica) of Hanover, PA; five grandchildren: Issac L. McCleaf, Jacob M. McCleaf, Gavin R. Rigby, Isabelle R. Rigby, and Samuel J. McCleaf; two siblings: Brian D. McCleaf of Norfolk, VA and Jennifer L. Shearer (Randy) of Hanover, PA; an aunt, Margaret A. Slaybaugh (Ron) of Middlebury, VT; and an uncle, David F. McDermitt of Jupiter, FL. A private graveside service and interment will be held at St. Francis Xavier Cemetery in Gettysburg. The Monahan Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online tributes and condolences can be made at monahanfuneralhome.com. “I’m going where the cold wind blows In the pines, in the pines Where the sun don’t ever shine”
