Earl Jack McAlary

Earl Jack McAlary, age 93, went to be with the Lord Saturday December 30, 2023 at his home, surrounded by his children. He greatly missed his wife of 64 years, Alice McAlary (nee Braat) who preceded him in death in May of this year.

Earl worked at Steelcase for over 25 years. After retiring, he continued to work many part-time jobs. The one he especially enjoyed was returning to the work he did in his youth selling goods at farmers markets. He also liked volunteering his time. He helped with cleanup after hurricane Katrina, drove cancer patients to appointments, delivered Christmas gifts to the needy, and volunteered for the Right to Life of Holland. Earl proudly served his country in the United States Army. He also enjoyed traveling with Alice before her death. He was proud of his Irish heritage and grateful that he got to make two trips with her to Ireland. Earl was a strong advocate for the unborn and was hopeful that someday they would be fully protected.

Earl is survived by his children Patrick McAlary, Jeff (Jane) McAlary, Jodi (Greg) Rozema, Terry (Ileana) McAlary; brother, Larry McAlary; sisters-in-law Mary McAlary, Cora Westhuis, and Marie Graham; 13 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Also preceding Earl in death were his parents William and Anna McAlary; sisters Marion (Red) Oppenhuizen, Francis (Harry) Yankey, Barb (Bob) Wagner; brothers Robert (Eleanor) McAlary, Ralph (Sidney) McAlary, Gaylord McAlary, Keith McAlary; brothers- and sisters-in-law Sandy McAlary, Neal (Betty) Braat, Alma (Don) Carlon, and Darlene (Leo) Bush.

Visitation with friends and relatives will take place from 5-8 p.m. (with prayer service at 7:30 p.m.) on Tuesday, January 2, 2024 at Cook Memorial Chapel (East Building), 4235 Prairie St. SW Grandville, MI 49418. A celebration Mass of Earl’s life will commence 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, 2700 Baldwin St. Jenison, MI 49428, with visitation from 10-10:45 a.m. prior to the service.

In honor of Earl and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Right to Life of Holland (RTL.org). Interment will be at Georgetown Cemetery at a later date. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in Earl’s online guest book.