Olan John “Jack” Cleaver, Jr., age 83 of New Castle, DE, passed away Wednesday, April 11, 2018. He was born July 13, 1934 in Wilmington, DE to the late Olan J. Cleaver, Sr. and Lela Gertrude (Leasure) Cleaver.

A graduate of Newark High School Class of 1953, Jack was an all-around athlete in football, basketball, and baseball, and in addition, he was a member of the Fire Patrol. He served his country in the Army Reserve from 1961 to 1963, attaining the rank of Sergeant. A professional truck driver, he worked for Swift’s Meat Company and Miller Brothers Furniture. Jack was a dedicated volunteer fireman for the Christiana Fire Company and was a lifelong member. He enjoyed boating, owning several boats over the years, and was an avid fisherman. He enjoyed all sports that involved “a ball” and rooted for the Phillies, Eagles and 76ers. Also, Jack was a fan of boxing and wrestling. He enjoyed listening to country music and was a very good dancer. His greatest joy however was being husband to the love of his life, Joy, and a father to his family.

Jack is survived by his wife of 60 years, Dorothy “Joy” Cleaver; daughters, Kathy Deats of Newark, DE and Robin Cecconi, and husband, William, of New Castle, DE; grandson, William Cecconi, Jr. of Smyrna, DE; granddaughters, Melissa Foglia, and husband, Salvatore, of New Castle, DE and Alexandria Deats, of Middletown, DE; and his special great grandson, Angelo Foglia, “The Apple of His Eye”. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Olan is preceded in death by his siblings, George Cleaver, Clyde B. Cleaver, A. Burke Cleaver, and Audrey C. Laws.

The family would like to give special thanks and appreciation to the nurses and staff of Regal Heights Health Care Center. Their care and attention during his stay at the center was exceptional, and above and beyond the call of duty.

An evening visitation will be held from 6 to 8 PM on Wednesday, April 18, 2018 at R.T. Foard & Jones Funeral Home, 122 West Main Street, Newark, DE 19711. A Celebration of Olan’s life will be held 11 AM on Thursday, April 19, 2018 at the funeral home. Family and friends may also visit one hour prior to the service beginning at 10 AM. Interment will follow at Christiana Presbyterian Cemetery in Christiana, DE. In lieu of flowers, memorial contribution checks may be made payable to “Christiana Fire Co.” or “Season’s Hospice,” and sent in care of the funeral home. To send online condolences, please visit www.rtfoard.com