Obituary of James McLean

It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of one of Sault Ste. Marie’s very own, Jimmy McLean at the age of 79, with his close family by his side at the FJ Davey Home. 

Son to the late Beatrice and the late Walter McLean. He is survived by his beloved wife Bonny (Beradine) of 53 years, his daughter Janet and son Michael, their spouses Keith and Michelle and his five grandchildren Kyler, Justin, Riley, Eva and Autumn who all adored their ‘Papa’. Jimmy was the eldest of four children and is survived by Karen, John, Paul and their families. 

Jimmy grew up in Monteray Gardens and attended Collegiate Highschool where his remarkable athletic talent truly shone. He received numerous awards in High School and went on to attend and play for several universities on football scholarships. His Collegiate Football Jersey # 30 was retired and placed on display for many years.

During his teaching career he coached football and basketball. His students and colleagues held the highest respect for Jimmy, and to this day he is talked about fondly by those he taught and coached.

Jimmy’s loves in life were spending time with his family, entertaining and helping friends, playing sports, watching sports (especially his Green Bay Packers and the Detroit Red Wings). He particularly enjoyed eating; Jimmy loved to eat. Leftovers were a rarity if Jimmy had anything to do with it.

His battle with dementia has now ended but the memory of his gentle soul and quiet demeanor will always be remembered. Jimmy never complained, he took every setback in his stride and to the very end refused to feel sorry for himself. 

We cannot possibly thank everyone for their countless visits to the FJ Davey Home and all the support they have given both Bonny and Jimmy over the last few years. The love that people had for Jimmy is overwhelming, and we hope you all understand it is reciprocated. We would also like to thank the remarkable and caring staff on the third floor Apple Orchard. They went above and beyond to comfort both Jimmy and family.

Friends and family are invited to visit at Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758) on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the Memorial Service in the Chapel at 1:00 p.m. with Mrs. Helen Smith officiating. Memorial donations to the Alzheimer Society of Sault Ste. Marie or the Algoma Residential Community Hospice (ARCH) would be greatly appreciated by the family.