August 26, 1930 - June 2, 2020
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Angus Maclean on June 2nd, 2020 3 months shy of his 90th birthday. His loving wife Mary and family at his side, he died at home after several months of declining health.
Dad was born August 26, 1930 in a small seaside hamlet of Flat River, Prince Edward Island. He remained proud of his maritime heritage and continued to live close to water his entire life, first in Montreal, then Toronto and finally during his retirement years, happily in Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island.
During his early Montreal years, he pursued degrees in Chemistry, Commerce and Business Administration, while married to his first wife Enid (Jones) and raising their son and daughter. Dad was a hard worker; logical thinker, his career remained an important driver and aspect of his character.
He initially worked as a Chemist in the Rubber and Plastic industries, rising through the organizations, in various senior management positions and retiring as VP for the Canadian division of an International Chemical company. Dad met his 2nd wife Mary, and they travelled extensively both on business trips and pleasure trips well into retirement. On one of his favorite trips they visited his nephew David and David's wife Barbara in Germany. They remained very close to the end of Dad's life. Other memorable trips; travels across Canada, the US Pacific Coast, Florida, Mexico, Scotland to visit his ancestral roots, Ireland to embrace the green countryside and dramatic coast, in addition to many romantic cruises throughout the Caribbean and Central America. Pictures albums featuring the above will continue to provide cherished memories for his wife Mary and family, as they remember and reflect on Dad's life.
After his retirement and a move to Qualicum Beach, as his friend Heinz said, Angus was willing to serve his community, as President of the Newcomers Club of Qualicum Beach. Dad enjoyed organizing special events, including more casual backyards parties, with plentiful food and wine. One memorable event, he had a large shipment of Lobster flown in from PEI to pay tribute to the Island of his birth. Under his deft hand he served up a Lobster feast for all to enjoy.
Dad's other great joy was gardening; that remained a passion until his tragic and sudden loss of sight in 2012 due to an optic nerve infarct. This loss of sight was a sad and painful time in Dad's life, and with the support of his wife Mary, family, and friends he moved forward with courage and resolve. He replaced gardening with "Talking Books" from the CNIB. He looked forwards to his walks to the mailbox to retrieve a new assortment of books, that provided exposure to a vast array of subject matter.
On the subject of walks, Dad was fortunate that a wonderful group of people came forth and volunteered to accompany Dad on daily walks around the neighbourhood. Those walkers I do remember include his best friend Heinz S, Mike G, Don K, Gus G, and his special sweetie Dianne K. As his "walkers" and special friends you brightened up his day, with stories and laughter, a gentle hand on his walker, ensuring he had exercise and a breath of fresh air. I know in the early years there were others and although not named, you too were so integral to helping Dad along the way. We are also very grateful to Lynn G, who provided interesting conversations and scrumptious treats. Lori and Nick and Ken and Marg for faithfully responding to Lifeline calls and being there in times of need.
Dad is predeceased by his parents Emma and Alexander Maclean, his sister Christine (Angie), brother David and Robert (May) his niece Sandra, nephews Wayne and Brian and his first wife Enid (Jones/Goddard)
He leaves behind the love of his life, his wife Mary, son Sheldon (Maureen) Langley, daughter Sheila (Maurice) Qualicum Beach, granddaughter Julia, stepchildren Gail (Tony) Calgary, Sam (Julie) Wasaga Beach and step-grandsons Lauren (Jamie) and Ryan, Calgary. He also leaves behind a special nephew David (Barbara) and Roy, Wendy, and their spouses.
The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to all the caregivers; Liz, Charlene, Leslie and Marjorie for their assistance over the years, VIHA care aides; your warmth and spirit, so appreciated at a time of Dad's declining health. The Oceanside community and ER nurses, the O.T. Fay, the NRGH nurses, physicians/hospitalists who cared for Dad during his 3 - week hospital stay, while Covid 19 restrictions precluded our visits. We acknowledge Dr. Stephen Fox and nurse case managers Alaina and Lou who provided both a gentle guide and showed such compassion during this extraordinarily difficult time. Special gratitude to the care aide and case manager who arrived a few minutes after Dad's passing, your compassionate support was appreciated more than you'll ever know.
Dad you are in a better place where gardens are blooming, birds are singing, your sight restored, and you are enjoying all in brilliant color. Knowing you are a man of science, perhaps you are exploring the Universe. In any case, we will miss you forever, your loving wife Mary and loving family.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to CNIB or a charity of your choice can be made in Dad's name.
To send a condolence to the family please visit Yates Memorial website.
"Time for us to part now, we won't say goodbye; look for me in rainbows, shining in the sky"
To send a condolence to the family please visit www.yatesmemorial.ca
Yates Memorial Services 250-248-5859
"Lives Cherished and Celebrated"
Yates Memorial Services