Obituary of John Franklin McLean

On Friday June 19th, 2020 in London, at the age of 81, surrounded by love and peace, John McLean, passed away. He fought with grace and humour throughout his long and courageous battle with cancer. John was born in London, Ontario on April 14, 1939 to loving parents, Eileen and Roy, and joined his sister Royleen. His biggest joy was his immediate family. He was married to Anne for over 51 years and she was his soldier, cheerleader, and his best friend. He would boast to anyone and everyone about his children: Mark (Lara), Johanna (Tomas) and Jonathan (Moshi). He was so proud of them, their accomplishments and always thought they got their smarts from him. He took great pleasure watching his four grandchildren, Quinn, Parker, Nash and Ryder, growing up. They all loved Poppa's magical ways and they will forever look for the rainbow sent by him to make them smile. He loved the early morning; he was always the first one to rise, make coffee or go for breakfast with one of his many friends, read the paper, and check the local news and do his crossword. He grew up in Old South London in simpler times, going for Jumbo ice cream on Saturday nights or playing basketball until sunset with friends. Those endless hours of practice led him to become an exceptional athlete on the basketball court but he also excelled at football, track and tennis. John was often the youngest on the teams but generally the best. He became captain of his high school teams, developing both his leadership and social skills that would serve him well as Student Council President of South Collegiate. During those teenage years, he met Dunc, Scottie and JC, his best friends for 68 years. They shared many meals together, and traveled to many countries, cottages, and boys-only golf trips. He took great joy in these deep friendships. As a young man, John took great pride in being a City of London Playground Supervisor for numerous summers. This is where he met Nashy, Diz, Clarky, Tommy, Prousie, Donna, and Marni. Friendship became a key element to John's happiness right behind his family. At the University of Windsor, where he went for a Physical Education degree, he met the love of his life, Anne. Together they developed more lasting friendships with the Nashs, Semotiuks, Williamsons, Whites, and Girvans. From playing bridge, having endless dinners, laughing or drinking too much scotch, these friends lasted a lifetime. We often joked that John was like the Mayor of London because he always knew someone everywhere he went. He had a special spark and connection with everyone he met. John went on to become a caring educator at the elementary, secondary and university levels in London and Middlesex County. He mentored many colleagues and students along the way and proudly ended his career as a Vice Principal to step into the favourite part of his life, retirement. With more time for family and friends, he became a better golfer, and mastered the art of stained glass. He loved travelling with Anne, sitting on the balcony of a cruise ship, listening to the ocean in Myrtle Beach, sipping coffee and people watching in Italy, or golfing with friends amid the gorgeous Irish scenery. We are so proud to have had John in our lives, as a father, husband, and best friend. We will never forget his compassionate ways. He has left this earth a better place. The McLean family would like to thank the outstanding staff at LHSC, especially Dr. Chin and Dr. George Kim. In lieu of flowers, in loving memory, please make a donation to Prostate Cancer Canada. A Celebration of LIfe will be held at an appropriate time.