Cleary to lead St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Shawn Cleary, longtime parade and community volunteer, named 2025 Grand Marshal

While his exact ancestral roots in Ireland remain uncertain (though a recent Ancestry DNA test suggests ties to Munster Province), Shawn Cleary’s connection to Irish heritage is undeniable. A longtime member of the Cathedral of St. Joseph and a dedicated leader for numerous nonprofits and organizations, Cleary is well-known in the Sioux Falls community.

The surname Cleary is often recognized as one of the oldest in Ireland and Europe, so it’s no surprise that he’s been involved with the Sioux Falls St. Patrick’s Day Parade Extravaganza Committee for the past 16 years, serving as chair for 10 of those. The annual event is a highlight of Cleary’s year.

“We all want to be able to celebrate our heritage,” Cleary said. “We’re all Americans, but we also want to honor our immigrant roots, our families, and our cultural traditions. Many Irish families hold reunions this time of year. Really, it’s about helping people celebrate a day of joy and the arrival of spring.”

The 45th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade will take place on Saturday, March 15, in downtown Sioux Falls. In the spirit of founder Sylvia Henkin, it is often called “The People’s Parade,” meaning it is free and open to the public. Anyone can enter a float or walk in the parade as long as they are registered or part of a registered group and are wearing an official St. Patrick’s Day Parade button.

Parade participation buttons cost $3 and are available in advance at downtown businesses. Buttons may also be purchased on March 15 before the parade starts. The committee partners with a nonprofit to support their mission. This year, St. Francis House, a nonprofit serving the homeless, will receive a portion of button sales.

Cleary was nominated for grand marshal by a group of former grand marshals. Ryan Murphy, chair of the St. Patrick’s Day Extravaganza Committee, praised Cleary’s dedication.

“Nobody has given more of their time, talent, and treasure to this event than Shawn,” Murphy said. “A big anniversary year deserves a hallmark grand marshal.”

Born in Dixon, Illinois, into a large Irish Catholic family of 11 children, Cleary grew up steeped in Irish traditions. He met his wife, Julie, through mutual friends at a pub while playing pool. An early career opportunity brought them to Sioux Falls in 1998 when Cleary began working as the Operations Manager for Dual Equipment. He later joined Alamo Group as the President of SMC Corporation and Tiger Mowers, retiring in November 2024 after 23 years.

Cleary has visited Ireland multiple times with his family, including for a family friend’s wedding and general sightseeing.

“There is no prettier place in the world than a clear day in Dingle Bay,” he said. “It’s the most picturesque place I’ve ever been. It’s also just a fun place—and the Guinness is good.”

Shawn and Julie have two sons, Corbin (Molly) and Nolan (Grace), and four grandchildren. Beyond his family and career, Cleary has always prioritized giving back to the Sioux Falls community, serving on the boards of the Carroll Institute, Multicultural Center, Bishop Dudley Hospitality House and the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce’s Agribusiness Division. He also leads the Sioux Falls Irish Club, which organized the annual Irish Fair for several years.

“All of us have an obligation to help our brothers and sisters in the world,” Cleary said. “Those of us who have been successful should be giving back because of that success.”

The parade, which brings together the regional community in celebration, typically features around 100 entries. Registration closes March 6 and is available at dtsf.com. Placement in the parade is on a first-come, first-served basis and at the discretion of parade officials. Each entry must incorporate an Irish theme. Participation rules and more details can be found on the parade website.

The parade is made possible through generous contributions from sponsors: Avera Health, Burwell Enterprises, Davenport Evans, First PREMIER Bank, Security National Bank, Xcel Energy, Dakota Beverage, Hagen, Wilka & Archer Law, The First National Bank in Sioux Falls and State Farm – Tate Teveldal.