Harry Clements

Harry Clements, 94, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away May 31, 2023.Preceded in death by parents; cherished wife, Pat; two older brothers. Survived by his six children, Julie, Paula, Jerry, Sheila, Lisa, and Curt; and six grandchildren, Daniel, Stephen, Terence, Mia, Ali, and Jesse.Harry was a person of integrity, and his optimism was indomitable. Born in Blackwell, Oklahoma on March 16, 1929, he served in the Army Core of Engineers during the Japan occupation. He earned his Masters Degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Wichita University. He was the Chief Technical Engineer at Cessna Aircraft, helping with design and development of the Model 172 and Air Force jet trainer T-37. He was also the General Manager of Manufacturing at the Rohr Corporation. As Program Manager there he diversified the company into a prime contractor of transportation systems and was awarded several patents.Harry began a second career as Deputy Commissioner of the Rehabilitation Services Administration and founder of National Industries for the Severely Handicapped which has been renamed Source America. He was also the Director of the Treasury Department's Bureau of Engraving and Printing. After retirement he served as Chairman of the Board of the Wichita Metropolitan Transit Authority, and taught in four Departments of Wichita State University.There will be a private service for immediate family only. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established with Goodwill Industries, 3351 N. Webb Rd., Wichita, KS 67226. Services in care of Downing & Lahey East Mortuary.