Donald was born on the farm north of Alameda on September 10, 1922. He attended school at Holbrooke and later Alameda. He lived through the "dirty thirties" in his youth and it was an experience that would shape his entire life.
Donald had a passion for farming. He helped his father on the family farm and eventually took over the family homestead. He grew grain and raised cattle. His favourite times of year were spring, seeding and fall harvest.
Donald met Esme Gadd while she was teaching at Holbrooke School. Donald and Esme were married on December 19, 1951. They had three children, Ken, Murray and Donalda (DJ). As the family grew, the grandchildren were a large part of Donald's life. He shared life on the farm and his experiences of the land. He shared his life's passion with the next generations. Donald continued to help out on the farm well into his eighties, driving tractors and working the land. He enjoyed going for a drive and checking the crops. If there was a sick cow he would be right there treating is back to health.
Donald passed away on Tuesday, November 12, 2013 at Galloway Health Centre, Oxbow after a short battle with pneumonia. The Funeral Service was held on Monday, November 18 at 2:00 p.m. at the Alameda United Church with Jack van't Voort officiating and delivering the eulogy. Donald was laid to rest in the Alameda Cemetery. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Hall Funeral Services, Estevan.
Donald is survived by his children, Ken (Diana) McLean (Tyler, Ryan, Lisa), Murray (Jana) McLean (son, Danny and granddaughter, Thrissa) and Donalda (DJ) McLean (Michael Larocque and their daughter Kathryn); special family friend Willie (Michelle) Wilbraham (April, Dana); sister, Edith Veitch; brother, Jack McLean, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Donald was predeceased by his wife, Esme McLean; parents, Stuart and Pearl McLean; brother-in-law, Jim Veitch; sister-in-law, Donna McLean.
His life-long passion for the family farm continues with the next generations he has inspired. After a full life doing what he loved, with hard work and perseverance, he now is able to rest. God Bless.
Thank You
We, the McLean family would like to thank Dr. Botha, Dr. Hyman, and the staff at the Galloway Health Centre for their care. Hall Funeral Services for their help and guidance. Jackie van't Voort, Anita Warriner and the Alameda United Church for the lovely service and lunch. Grant, Lorne, Reg, Larry, Bill and Bob for helping deliver Donald to his final resting place. We are grateful to all the neighbours and friends for all the cards, visits, food and flowers. Everything was much appreciated. Thank You.
Sincerely, Ken, Diana, Tyler, Ryan Lisa; Murray, Jana, Dan, Thrissa; Donalda, Mike, Kathryn
