David George MacLEAN

David George MacLean, 86, passed away quietly at his home in Mesa, Arizona on Sunday, September 19, 2021. David was born July 3, 1935 in Lapeer, Michigan to Orla and Mary Marcelline (Dumont) MacLean. In his younger years, he spent time playing and then helping out the neighbor farmer in Rogersville, which planted the seed for him wanting to be a veterinarian and then wanting to have a farm of his own later in life. Dave graduated from Mt. Morris High School before attending Flint Junior College and then Michigan State University earning his bachelor’s degree in 1960. He worked mainly as a Fisheries Biologist for the State of Michigan Department of Natural Resource offices in Grayling, Baldwin, Kalamazoo and then Roscommon. He was married to Carolyn Ruth Gambill from 1960 - 1983 having three children, Doug, Brad and Amy. Dave was a boy scout leader when the boys were younger. In 1974, they purchased his dream, a hobby farm in Custer, Michigan that was built before the turn of the century. The farm was a little run down (to say the least) but had very great potential! Dave spent most of his spare time tinkering with the farm equipment and doing things necessary to care for the animals (cows, chickens and horse) they were raising. While attending his 35th high school class reunion, he met his future wife, Patricia Joan Morgan, whom he married on June 17, 1989 and spent the rest of his life with, being married for 32 years. In 1992, he retired from the Department of Natural Resources after 32 years with the State of Michigan. After retirement, David and Pat spent their time traveling, often heading back to their Michigan roots and living in various places in Arizona until settling in Mesa. He enjoyed nature through his job, farm and traveling. His “hunting” buddies were friends that remained close friends throughout life as he enjoyed spending time with his many close friends and family. He is survived by his wife Pat, son Doug, daughter Amy (Mike) Beebe, stepdaughters Vicki (Stan) Hornacek, Janis (Ed) Wright, Susan (Brad) Geiger, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and nephew. David was preceded in death by his parents, brother Douglas, sister Mary Jerden and son, Bradley. A memorial service to celebrate David’s life will be planned at a later date. Please consider making a donation in David’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude