Robert McLean

Bob was born on April 3, 1940, in Queens, NY, the son of the late George McLean and Claire Tennie.

He is survived by his beloved children Robert (Elizabeth), Nicole (Richard) and Malia (Shawn), and his seven cherished grandchildren: Robert, Margaret, Andrieu, Tyler, Abigail, Dylan and Kennedy.

Born and raised in Queens, New York, he attended prestigious Brooklyn Tech before earning an appointment to the United States Naval Academy. He graduated with the class of 1962 and was commissioned as an officer in the United States Navy. During a distinguished 20-year naval career, Bob served primarily aboard cruisers and destroyers, including service in Vietnam. His service also included advanced studies, earning a master’s degree in Geodetic Science from The Ohio State University. Rising to the rank of Commander, his leadership dedication, and commitment to service exemplified the highest traditions of the United States Navy.

Following his retirement from the Navy in 1982, Bob continued serving the nation through a second career in the defense industry. Over the next 20 years with DBA Systems and Titan Corporation, he led teams developing and manufacturing digital imaging products, electro-optical systems and threat simulation/training systems, used by the defense and intelligence agencies.

In 1965, Bob married the love of his life Mary Ann McLean. Together they shared nearly 60 years of marriage, raising a family while embracing the adventures of Navy life in Jacksonville, Florida, Coronado and Long Beach, California, Columbus, Ohio, Honolulu, HI and ultimately settling in Springfield, VA. Their marriage was one of enduring love and devotion to one another. Mary Ann passed away just one month before Bob, and their family finds comfort in knowing they are reunited after a lifetime spent side by side.

Bob enjoyed a wide variety of hobbies and interests. He was an avid Volksmarcher, even serving as the President of the Northern Virginia Volksmarchers club. He served as an election official for Fairfax County, and organized election transportation for his fellow Fairfax residents to elections. He loved playing golf, playing board games, building model trains, and cheering on his favorite baseball and football teams. Above all, Bob treasured time spent with family and friends; he especially delighted in the holidays that brought the family together to celebrate and play a good board game or two. Bob will be remembered as a loving, selfless, and deeply caring man, who had unwavering integrity to his country, his family and his community.

Dad, we will miss your unwavering love and support, your quick wit, endless supply of corny dad jokes, remarkable intelligence and love of making others smile and laugh. Your love and laughter will remain with us forever.

We love you!!

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in Bob's memory.

Visitation will be held at Demaine Funeral Home, 5308 Backlick Road, Springfield, VA 22151, US, on July 15, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 7600 Old Keene Mill Rd, Springfield, VA 22152, US, on July 16, 2026, from 10:30 am to 11:30 am.