Dr. Alfred Francis McLean

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved and devoted father Alfred (Alf) McLean on December 6, 2023, in Calgary, AB at the age of 87 years. He was a cherished husband, a devoted father, and an amazing individual who presence illuminated the lives of all who knew him. Alf was born on March 21, 1936, in Winnipeg, MB to his parents Margaret and Frank McLean. He was an older brother to Frances (Fran). Alf was a caring and generous father to his four children: Kelly Roth (Shane), David, Erin Neary (Kenn), and Meghan King (Cory). He was loved by his eight grandchildren and five great grandchildren: Tyson (Carrie), Justin, and David Koivisto of Calgary, AB, Connor, Katie, and Kristian Roth of Calgary, AB; and Isabelle and Liam King of Calgary, AB and Isaiah, Maliki, Ezekiel, and Azrial of Vernon, BC and Kaylee of Edmonton, AB. He is pre-decreased by his parents, sister, son, a grandchild (Justin), and wife (Mary). In 1961, Alf was lifeguarding at the Banff Springs pool when he met his future wife, Mary Isabelle O’Connor. Within a year they wed in Owen Sound, ON and moved to Exshaw, AB. After 3 years in Exshaw, Alf and Mary returned to Alf’s hometown of Edmonton for a year to live with Alf’s father Frank and mother Margaret. Followed by another 4 years in Exshaw where Alf was a principal of the town school. They welcomed Katharine (Kelly) their oldest daughter in 1967, and Erin, their next daughter, a year and a half later. They spent 1 1/2 years in Missoula, Montana while Alf completed his Doctorate in Education. In 1970 the family moved to Calgary, AB where David their son joined the family, and Alf was the Vice Principal at Bishop Carroll High School. Raising three children Alf and Mary lived in Calgary for eight memorable years where they formed many long-term friendships. In 1977, they moved to Salmon Arm, BC where Meghan their youngest daughter was born, and Alf accepted the job as Assistant Superintendent within the Shuswap District. Four years later the family moved to Kelowna, BC where Alf spent the next 18 years as a high school principal. Alf and Mary continued to raise their family, spend time with friends and enjoy another 35 golden years together. Professionally, Alf excelled in his career, demonstrating perseverance, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His hard work and determination served as an inspiration to his colleagues, peers, and family. Alf and Mary spent 54 wonderful and fun filled years together, travelling around the world, enjoying the company of terrific friends, and creating wonderful memories with family. Alf particularly loved spending time at the cabin in Seymour Arm, travelling around the world, and relaxing in Maui beside the ocean. Alf always embraced life with enthusiasm and ensured he was living it to the fullest. In 2017, Alf met his second wife, Hilda. Hilda had recently lost her spouse as well and together they found comfort. Dad and Hilda spent close to 6 years together. During this time Alfred discovered a source of solace and happiness, turning a new chapter in his life that blended the warmth of companionship with the adventures of travel. A special thank you to the hospital staff at Southwood Care Centre, Calgary AB for their dedicated care and thoughtfulness toward Alf in his final days. A funeral mass will be held for Alf on December 20th at 11:00 am at St. Bonaventure Church in Calgary AB. The mass will be celebrated by Father Colin O'Rourke. Interment will take place at Rockyview Garden of Peace in Calgary, AB, where he will be buried beside Mary, in the spring of 2024. Caring for the family is Lyle Reeves Funerals of High River, AB (Craig Snodgrass) 403.652.4242.

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Dr. Alfred Francis McLean

March 21, 1936 - December 6, 2023