Obituary
Kenneth “Kenny” Wayne McCleave unexpectedly died in Lakeland Regional
Hospital on November 5, 2024, in Lakeland, Florida at the age of 72.
Kenneth is survived by his
children Kristal McCleave-Beckum of Tampa, Florida; his grandchildren Rysse
McCleave, KC Beckum, Raia Beckum; Lucy McCleave-Santangelo of Plant City,
Florida; his grandchildren Kyle Santangelo, Luke Santangelo; Samantha Preslar
of Ruskin, Florida, spouse Christopher Preslar; his grandchildren Jack Preslar,
Autry Preslar, Amity Preslar; Jesse McCleave of Gibsonton, Florida, spouse
Sarah McCleave; Colton McCleave of Valrico, Florida, spouse Emily McCleave; Chase
McCleave of Tampa, Florida; sister Connie McCleave-Lathrop, spouse Glenn
Lathrop; sister Cheryl Judd.
He is preceded in death
by parents Edward McCleave and Vivian McCleave; spouse Marilyn McCleave; sister
Beverly McCleave.
Kenneth was born on
October, 28, 1952 in Hillsboro, Kansas to Edward and Vivian McCleave. He
started working at East side Honda and Kawasaki in Wichita, KS as a mechanic
and always had a passion for motorcycles. Later, he then married Marilyn in
1976, while living in TN. Several years later they moved to Tampa and he was
the manager at Motorcycle Stuff. Over a period of time, the couple welcomed 6
children. He was an entrepreneur and had several different businesses that
included motorcycles, boats, jet skis, printing business, and fiberglass. He
was very talented and could fix anything and volunteered to help
everyone. His passion for racing motorcycles and cars is what he loved. He won
state motor cross racing in the 1970’s-1990’s. He worked hard all of his life
and was a beloved father, grandfather, spouse, sibling, and friend.
Today, we gather not
only in sorrow, but in gratitude for the beautiful soul that was Kenny. He may
no longer be with us in body, but the impact of his kindness and the memories
of his love will forever live on in our hearts. May we all carry forward the
grace and compassion he shared with us, finding peace in knowing that he is now
at rest.
A graveside service is scheduled
for Friday, December 13, 2024 at 11 A.M. at Serenity Meadows Memorial Park, 6919 Providence
Rd., Riverview, FL 33578. Terry Tyree will lead the
announcement of service on behalf of the family. All are welcome to attend and
celebrate Kenny’s life. The family would like to thank all family members and
friends for their effort and dedication.