Legacy of Marilyn McCleary Continues Through Family's Support of KLT

KLT supporter Marilyn McCleary always had a passion for science, nature, and outdoor exploration — and she was always sharing this enthusiasm with others. 

She shared it with students during her time as an elementary school teacher at Woodlawn Elementary and Quail Run Elementary in Lawrence. She shared it with other educators during her time as the director of the Lawrence school district’s K-6 science curriculum. She also shared it with her family. 

Now that Marilyn is in memory care, Marilyn's three sons. John, Joe and Frank, honor their mother's passion for the natural world by generously donating to KLT in her name.

The family's support of KLT ensures that future generations can continue to experience the joys and benefits of nature that Marilyn held so dear. 

“Mom always encouraged our love of the outdoors and nature and our participation in outdoor camps at the KU Natural History Museum.” says Joe. “There is no doubt that my love of the outdoors and nature came from her.” 

 Marilyn also successfully passed along her enthusiasm for nature to her grandchildren, says John.  

“She would always take my kids to parks and to other places where they could see and experience nature firsthand,” John says. “She loved Kansas and saw the natural beauty that so many miss. That same passion was passed on to me and my children.” 

The McCleary brothers said they believe that honoring their mother by continuing to donate to KLT in her name is the most apropos way to continue her legacy well into the future. 

“She definitely supported preserving land in its natural state,” said Frank. “She got so much joy from being outdoors. Supporting the Kansas Land Trust is a logical choice.” 

KLT extends its gratitude to Marilyn McCleary for sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm for the natural world with so many people, and thanks the McCleary brothers for honoring Marilyn’s legacy by supporting land conservation in Kansas. Because of the McCleary family, all Kansas will have more opportunities to enjoy the benefits of healthy prairies, robust wildlife, cleaner waterways and beautiful outdoor spaces for generations to come.