McLEAN, DONALD L. - 1914-2011 - It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Donald Lionel McLean of Bath, NB which occurred at the Upper River Valley Hospital, Waterville, NB on Sunday, June 12, 2011. Donald was born April 28, 1914 in Charlo, NB the son of the late John and Winifred (Dickie) McLean. Donald was predeceased by his wife of 62 years Irene (Swinnard) McLean. As a member of the 4th division of the Algonquin Regiment, Donald served in World War II from 1942-1946. He served as a clerk in England before going to the front lines on the European Continent. He saw action in France, Belgium and Holland and, after being wounded in Bergin Op Zoom in Holland, returned to England for recuperation and further training as a clerk. Donald was a life member of the Royal Canadian Legion and past president of the Florenceville branch and poppy campaign chairman for over 25 years. Donald was a United Church elder and trustee and a member of the Masons and Elks. Donald took great pride in his ability to raise healthy trout and salmon while he was employed by the Department of Fisheries (1946-1978) as Superintendant at several fish hatcheries in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. His ability to remember the details of his long life and extraordinary experiences, along with his extensive reading, made his story telling very memorable. Donald’s family was his pride and joy and he was happiest at large family gatherings which often included four generations. He enjoyed the company of his good friends and neighbours. Other interests included curling, gardening and fishing. Donald is survived by his six children M. Joan Smith (Wayne) of Hines Creek, AB, Marilyn Tompkins (Raymond) of Mount Pleasant, NB, Marjory Hume (Roger Kitchen) of Airdrie, AB, Donald McLean (Maria) of Bathurst, NB, Pam McLean-Veysey (Sidney) of Bedford, NS and Carolyn Fox (Dwight Lucas) of Porter’s Lake, NS, 16 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren, one sister, Margaret Fawcett of Riverview, NB; two brothers, Norman McLean (Edythe) of Ottawa, ON and Albert McLean of Charlo, NB and several nieces, nephews and extended family. He was predeceased by his parents, wife, Irene and 11 brothers and sisters.
Visitation will be held from L.R. Giberson Funeral Directors, 207 Burnham Rd. Florenceville – Bristol on Thursday, June 16, 2011 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 pm. The Royal Canadian Legion Branch # 37 will hold a tribute service at 6:45 pm Thursday evening. A funeral service will be held Friday, June 17, 2011 at 11:00 am from Faith Memorial United Church. Rev. Elaine Strawbridge will officiate. Interment will be in the Florenceville Community Cemetery, Maple St. Donations made to Faith Memorial United Church or the Royal Canadian Legion Branch # 37 would be appreciated by the family.
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