Obituary of Ronald Austin McLean

~ Gone from our sights, but never gone from our hearts ~

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ronald Austin McLean, 74 of Upper Clements, beloved husband and father who passed away peacefully at Tideview Terrace, Digby, on May 24, 2019 surrounded by his family.  Born in Toronto, Ontario, on December 6, 1944, Ron was the son of the late Royden McLean and Lenore Quinn. 

He joined the Canadian Armed Forces as an Infanterie with the Royal Canadian Regiment in 1961.  He was a member of the Black Watch Regiment in Germany.  He served 3 Tours of Duty in Cyprus as a United Nations Peacekeeper.  After 17 years, he remustered to Military Police, retiring as a MCPL after a 27-year career.

After retirement from the CAF, he spent ten years as a driver and Inspector for Metro Transit in Halifax. He left the city life behind and moved to Cornwallis in the early 2000’s.  There he became a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Clementsport Branch #122, where he was 1st Vice President.  It was here that he met Anne and it was love at first sight.  They were married in 2006, and although it was not nearly enough time together, they made many wonderful memories.  They spent their time swimming at the Y, walking their dog, Brutus, sharing time with friends.  During these years they were lucky to enjoy two major trips together including a European Cruise and a VIA Rail voyage across Canada. 

Ron leaves behind his wife Karen “Anne” McLean (Doucette); sons Ron and Ken McLean (Roberta), both of Halifax, NS; step-daughter Jocelyne Scott (Randy), Calgary, AB; step-sons Harley Robicheau (Ocean), Wilmot, NS and Greg Fairn (Anthea), Markham, ON; several grandchildren Brittany, Taylor, Danielle, Janelle, Katelyn, Logan, Landon, Khloe,  and Jayce.  Also, survived by one half-brother Jimmy, St. John NB.

He was predeceased by half-brother Robert, also of St. John NB.

Special thank you to Dr. Black, the nurses and caregivers at Tideview Terrace where Ron spent his final months.  Your care and compassion helped to make this time more manageable.  You are true angels.

Thank you as well to Mountain Lea Lodge where this final journey began.

Angie Hutchings, Ron and Anne’s “Valley daughter”, you have become a special friend who has helped support them over the last few years by making sure they had transportation to appointments, providing companionship and making sure they were fed.  Your thoughtfulness will not be forgotten.

Cremation has taken place under the care of Serenity Funeral Home.  No funeral service by request.  A Celebration of Life will take place at the Clementsport Legion on Sunday, July 21, 2019 from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Nova Scotia.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Serenity Funeral Home, Digby County Funeral Chapel, 367 Highway #303, Digby, B0V 1A0 (902-245-2444).