John Cleary Obituary

Cleary, John J. 78, passed on Sunday, April 11, 2010. Survived by his sister Mary C. Sheehan, dear uncle of Robert Sheehan Jr., Daniel Sheehan, Michael Sheehan, Maryanne Sheehan, Lynne Sheehan, Joseph Sheehan and Patrick Sheehan. Preceded in death by sisters Eileen Finnerty and Roseanne Cleary. Born in Chicago, IL, attended Leo High School, graduated Loyola University. Worked for 20 years as an outpatient administrator at the University of Chicago Hospital. While working at U of C, a friend was hospitalized for an illness. John, with his passion for pranks, wanted to play a prank on his friend. He tried for weeks to find someone dressed as a character to "reveal" a bit of herself to him. After many phone calls, he finally found someone to "help" him with his prank. After the prank on his friend, he decided there was perhaps a market for these types of pranks. This was the start of John's own business, Grin 'N Bare It Entertainment Agency. A legitimate and well-known entertainment business in the Chicago area for more than 20 years until the business was sold in 2001. The agency sent male and female dancers to Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, along with a cast of characters that included female impersonators, chubby gals, and belly dancers for various celebrations in life. John, along with the help of his office manager, Rae, worked diligently to maintain a high standard in the entertainment industry. This diligence paved the way for Grin 'N Bare It's success, becoming Chicago's number one entertainment business from 1981-2001. He had a passion for his business and his employees, gathering them every weekend at a local bar, until the early hours of the morning, to hear all the stories from the parties they had been to. This passion was carried over to his love for the people and country of Thailand. He traveled there every year for several years, making donations to orphanages and worthy causes for the good of the people of Thailand. Mr. "Keery", as he was known by the girls in Thailand, will be remembered for his generosity and kindness throughout his life. He will be truly missed by all. Prayer Service Saturday 11:00 a.m. at the Smith-Corcoran Funeral Home, 6150 N. Cicero Avenue, Chicago. Interment Private. Visitation Friday 3 to 9 p.m. Information 773-736-3833 or visit his memorial at www.smithcorcoran.com