David John MacLean passed away on Friday, December 27, 2024, at the age of 91 years, beloved husband of Anne MacLean of Medicine Hat.  He also leaves to cherish his memory seven children David MacLean, Doug MacLean, Hugh (Kim) MacLean, Rob MacLean (Kerry Wing), Mike MacLean, Catherine (Vaughn) Usher, Burke (Louise Dawson-MacLean) MacLean; thirteen grandchildren and one sister Susan (Mike) Carey.  He was predeceased by his parents Rachel and Ronald MacLean, one daughter Mary Jo MacLean, a daughter-in-law Monica Wade, one brother Ron MacLean and one sister Mona Mahoney. 

Born in Regina, Saskatchewan, in 1933, Dad’s life was deeply rooted in family and community. In the late 1930s, his parents moved to Gravelbourg, Saskatchewan, along with his brother Ron and sister Mona. His younger sister, Susan, was born after the family settled there. In Gravelbourg, Dad’s father practiced law, and it was in this small town that Dad’s character was shaped by the values of hard work, service, and dedication to family.

Following in the footsteps of his father and brother, Dad pursued a career in law, graduating from the University of Saskatchewan in 1957. During his time there, he met the love of his life, Anne Nagle. Their bond was undeniable, and they married shortly after Dad’s graduation.

Dad and Mom began their life together in Calgary, where Dad started his law career. It was also in Calgary that they welcomed their first two sons, David and Doug. Dad’s
career took a significant turn when he joined the firm of Mahoney and Co., and later, Mr. A.Y. Spivack, in Medicine Hat. In the early 1960s, he partnered with Roy Wiedemann, a colleague who became a close and trusted friend. Over 65 years, Dad poured his heart into building a successful legal practice. He loved the law and embraced its challenges with passion and determination.

While renting a house on Belfast St., the MacLean family grew with Mary Jo, Hugh, and Rob joining the clan. In 1964, Mom and Dad built the family home that became the heart of so many cherished memories. For nearly 60 years, they lived in that house, raising their growing family, which soon included Mike, Catherine and Burke.

Family time was precious to Dad, and he made sure to create unforgettable experiences for his children. Skiing became a cherished tradition, with countless weekends spent at Elkwater Ski Hill and school holidays exploring the mountains. Skiing at Lake Louise was a Dad’s favourite.

In the late 1960s, Mom and Dad were given a rundown cabin at Flotten Lake, Saskatchewan. With Mom’s touch, they transformed the cabin into a humble yet
magical retreat. Despite its lack of power or water, it became the backdrop of many joyful summers. Dad loved the lake, and the long eight-hour drives north were always worth it to him. Sailing was one of his greatest passions. While he dreamed of one day owning a sailboat on the West Coast, he created countless adventures by renting large sailing yachts there. Whether on the waters of Flotten Lake or exploring coastal waterways, sailing brought him immense joy.

As their children grew older and left home, Mom and Dad began to travel the world. From South Africa to Europe, the Middle East, Australia, and New Zealand, they shared incredible adventures together. Among all their travels, Dad’s favorite trips were to England’s canals. He and Mom spent weeks aboard longboats, navigating locks, meeting new people, and enjoying stops at local pubs.

Throughout his life, Dad embraced new challenges and passions. He became a pilot, using his skills to fly clients to meetings, visit relatives, and bring his kids to and from university. Flying wasn’t just practical for Dad—it was another way he expressed his love for adventure and freedom.

Dad’s life was a testament to a life well lived. He found joy in every moment, from time spent with his beloved grandchildren to ensuring that those around him were cared for. His generosity, passion, and unwavering commitment to family will forever be remembered.

We are grateful for the extraordinary life he lived and the legacy of love and adventure he leaves behind.

Family and friends will gather for prayers in the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE on Thursday, January 2, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.  The funeral mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church (238 - 2nd Avenue N.E.) Friday, January 3, 2025, at 10:30 a.m.  with Fr. Roque Pereira celebrant.  

The funeral prayers and mass will be live streamed.  Please follow these links for the respective service:  Prayer Service - https://youtube.com/live/F-mJk6yfE_U?feature=share

Funeral Mass:  https://youtube.com/live/tGVZv-5c12A?feature=share