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Peacefully, surrounded by loving family, on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Bluewater Health, John McLean passed away at the age of 75. Beloved husband of Debra. Loving father of John (Nao) McLean and Anne Marie McLean. Cherished Papa of Luke and Jack McLean. Treasured brother of Doreen (Roy) Johnson of England. Brother-in-law of Jim and Dianne Gowanlock. Lovingly remembered by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews both in Canada and England. Predeceased by his parents, Hilliard “Mac” and Irene McLean, by his in-laws Gus and Celeste Organ, and by his sister Carol and brother in-law Robert “Lefty” Harding, and brother-in-law Jim (Linda) Organ.
John retired from Imperial Oil in 2004 after 33 years of service. A Stationary Engineer by trade, but over the years moved into many positions, including the JIC Chairman of the elected delegates. A dedicated and loyal worker, he took great pride in the work he did and was grateful to the company he worked for.
John was very social and was involved in many team activities. In his teen years, he was a part of the Sertomanaires Drum Corp. He often spoke fondly of the competitions, camaraderie, and travel involved. In his young adulthood, he enjoyed playing two-pitch before transitioning to bowling, starting with 10-pin and later moving to 5-pin in retirement. But it was on the golf course at the Sarnia Golf and Curling Club where he spent many of his happiest days, enjoying both the game and the friendships that came with it.
Another special organization to John was the SODA Group (Sarnia Organ Donors Awareness). He was actively involved from its inception and eventually became the Chair for a few years. He loved organizing their yearly golf tournament and was also integral in bringing Jazz in the Village to Sarnia.
John loved to travel, from early trips to Europe to frequent visits to Las Vegas and Japan with Deb. In retirement, Florida became their second home, where they spent many winters enjoying the sunshine.
John had a great love for animals and had many loyal companions over the years, but Gizmo and Coco would always hold a special place in his heart. Today John leaves behind his girl Maisie.
John was known for his amazing spirit and the joy he brought to any room. You could always find him by following the laughter—just as long as it wasn’t at his beloved Maple Leafs’ expense.
He loved sports, especially his Leafs, Lions, and Tigers, and attended many live events over the years with friends and family, creating wonderful memories along the way.
But above all, his family was his greatest pride and joy. His most meaningful accomplishments were his 36-year marriage to Debra, raising his two children, and becoming a Papa. Whether throwing balls, playing mini-sticks, watching movies and games, or simply talking and laughing, the time he spent with Luke and Jack filled him with pure joy.
Almost 3 years ago when John was diagnosed with ALS, he began to research and learn as much as he could about the disease. He offered to be a part of trial drugs, to be of help in any way possible. The family would like to thank all of the medical professionals, support workers and especially his close buddy, Ian.
Cremation has taken place. Family and friends will be received at Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia, on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. A memorial service will be held at Smith Funeral Home on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., with family and friends being received one hour prior to the service. A livestream of John’s service will be available on his memorial page at smithfuneralhome.ca at the time of service for those who cannot attend in person.
Sympathy may be expressed through donations to SODA (Sarnia Organ Donors Awareness) or the ALS Society of Canada (cheques only at the funeral home, please).