Malcolm Donald MacLean, age 95, of Sydney Nova Scotia passed away peacefully on December 24, 2021 at the Palliative Care Unit of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital. Born on September 10, 1926, Malcolm was the eldest born to Daniel and Teresa (MacNeil) MacLean.
Malcolm ‘Malkie’ was blessed with a keen intellect, strong constitution, dry sense of humour, generous heart and a healthy dose of self-reliance. Picking up shifts at the Steel Plant during high school (to make pocket change) was followed by a career at the CNR, firstly at the ticket office in North Sydney followed by a position in the Sydney freight office. Whether he was visiting his uncle in the country (Irish Vale), going to the office, crossing the harbour in winter or heading to church in a snow storm, Malkie’s preferred mode of transportation was the bicycle. Learning the value of a penny at an early age, Malkie’s frugal nature was only out-matched by his generosity. Whether pitching in to make Christmas a little brighter for his younger siblings, helping out with tuition or just sharing his life experience and wisdom over a cup of tea he was always there for his family and friends.
Left to mourn Malcolm’s passing and celebrate his life are his sisters Josephine Sears and Christina McGean; nieces, Catherine Sears, Theresa MacLean (Scott), Karen MacLean, Leisa MacLean, Wendy McGean (John); nephews, Cameron Sears, Joseph Sears, Michael MacLean (Beverly), Richard MacLean, John MacLean, Jim MacLean, Brian McGean and Daniel McGean; cousins, Cecelia D’Agostino and Chrissie Goldie (Gord).
Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers, Michael and Johnny; and sisters, Margaret (in childhood) and Mary. He was also predeceased by brothers-in-law Cameron Sears and Simon McGean; sister-in-law Shirley; uncles, John S. MacLean, Police Chief Alec Goldie (Annie); aunt Mary Greene (Joseph) and niece Sharon Sears.
The family would also like to extend their gratitude to the doctors and staff of The Stroke Unit and The Palliative Care Unit of the Cape Breton regional Hospital for the compassion and care extended to Malcolm during his last weeks.
There will be no visitation. Due to current COVID restrictions, a private family celebration of Christian Mass will be held at 11:00am, Monday, January 3, 2022 at St. Marguerite Bourgeoys Church, Sydney NS. Those unable to attend may join the livestream via TW Curry’s Facebook page. Mass celebrant will be Father Bill Burke. Donations in Malkie’s memory may be made to Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys Parish or The Palliative Care Unit, Cape Breton Regional Hospital. And when circumstances permit, please invite a senior to lunch or just a cup of tea. You won’t regret it. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.twcurry.com.
“Oidhche math, Malcolm. Tapadh leibh agas beannachdan ort.”
