Dr. Harold Ernest McLearan

 My brother, Dr. Harold Ernest McLearan (Hal) was the most fascinating man and an exceptional brother. He could entertain me for hours with his intense knowledge of dentistry, chemistry, organic remedies, etymology, and interesting stories from Boy Scouts and Eagle Scouts, in which he participated with his son Adam. Like his younger sister, Rhonda Michalk, I admired his ability to dig into a subject and talk (endlessly) about almost any subject. I will miss our long conversations because he passed away on August 19, 2024. 

His 81 years were definitely full of adventure. One of the interests he passed on to me was his love for the history and evolution of wine. Hal studied the growing regions, varieties, and ways of making all the varieties--from France, Australia, California, and throughout the Americas. He was an avid reader, so I could always expect a conversation about any question I might ask him. If I discovered a new wine, he would dig into the background and share the information before I could finish a glass!! 

He was born in Lenard, Oklahoma, to parents Ernest and Ethel McLearan, and then, at the age of three years, he moved to Visalia, California. His interest in dentistry took him to San Francisco, where he studied at the University of San Fransisco and received 3 PhD.'s. He met and married Susan Huff and gained two children: Adam (wife, Ha Mell) and Katharyn (Derek), who provided him with grandchildren Cora, Ewan, and Sierra. He completed his life with Barbara (who preceded him in death last year) and three more children: Gary (Matt), Tiffany (Maddisen and Cameron), and David. He cherished these children --they made his life complete.

Most importantly, the family would like to acknowledge and thank all of the neighbors who have helped and cared for Hal during his life in Dayton. Your love and support are deeply appreciated. 

A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Aug. 30, 2024, at the Red Rose Funeral Home, 56 S. State St., Preston, Idaho. A graveside dedication at Dayton Cemetary will follow this. Donations to a meaningful cause will be served by his sister Rhonda Michalk of California.