MCLEAN, John Ian McLean

Ian took his final, gentle breath in the early morning, moving on peacefully to another world. He was a wonderful husband, a loving father, and a proud Papa. Much-loved by so many, our worlds are a little smaller now that he is gone.

Predeceased by parents Bob and Nancy and younger brother Ed. Ian leaves behind the love of his life, wife Tracy, adored daughter Jessa, stepsons Taylor and Spencer and beautiful grandchildren, wee James and Havana.

Ian’s legacy is not measured in possessions or accolades but in something more enduring, the unforgettable impact he had on others because of the man he was.

Born in Glasgow, Ian spent his early years in Scotland among a loving family developing his lifelong passion for political discourse at his Granny’s knee. His dad fostered Ian’s love of “fitba”, not only as a talented player but an enduring, ardent supporter of the Glasgow Rangers. His mum instilled caring, kindness, compassion and a love for get-togethers with friends where he also learned the power of spirited debate.

Ian’s parents wanted a better life for their children, immigrating to Canada when Ian was twelve. Ian quickly discovered new passions: hockey (The Habs), football (The Cowboys), baseball (The Jays and Yankees) and golf. After leaving school, he worked in the aircraft industry (McDonnell Douglas) where he quickly joined the union and rose through the ranks fighting for the rights of the working man and woman. His ability to organize led him to a career in the tobacco industry where he retired after many years (Rothmans Benson & Hedges) as a senior executive.

Ian was the devoted husband of Tracy, together for 23 years. Ian always said the best years of his life were spent with his one true love and soul mate. Their marriage was a genuine partnership and their life together was rooted in love, laughter and unwavering support for one another. They shared a love of golf, travel, fun times and lively debates with their many friends, holding hands and spending quiet time together. Everyone could see the love they had for each other when they were together.

A long-time member of Scarboro Golf and Country Club, Ian loved nothing more than spending time at his “home away from home”. He will be remembered by all for hanging out at the first tee shooting the breeze with members and staff, holding court on the veranda with his Tuesday boys, dinners with friends, friendly competition, and as the master of the Texas wedge shot from 40 feet off the green to sink the putt.

A passionate man who had strong beliefs about the things that mattered to him. He was proud of his Scottish heritage and working class roots, his politics and belief in social democracy, equality, and prosperity for all. He stood up for what he believed to be true and right but was also keenly interested in the opinions of others. Even if he didn’t always agree with those opinions he was always up for a healthy debate and share his perspective, often with a scotch in one hand and a Cuban cigar in the other.

Ian was a good man. A man of the people. A man of principle, honesty and integrity. A man who went his own way. A brilliant, deep thinker and usually the smartest guy in the room. Generous with his thoughts and time. Sweet and kind. Funny, witty and so very charming. Full of love and laughter. Sentimental. Lifelong friend and new friend to many. Ian was all of those things. He made a difference. We will miss him.

Special thanks to Ian’s amazing care team at Sunnybrook’s Odette Cancer Centre and Palliative Care Unit, Dr. Smoragiewicz, Dr. Emmeneger, Dr. Detsky, Dr. Sirriani, Dr. Guan, and Julie Burnett.

In keeping with Ian’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Private service and celebration of life to be held at Scarboro Golf and Country Club.
If desired, donations may be made to Sunnybrook Foundation (donate.sunnybrook.ca/tribute).

AFTERCARE CREMATION & BURIAL SERVICE LIMITED