A smile as warm as the sun and eyes as bright as the night stars.

After 99 full years of life, Hypolite Russell McLean, peacefully passed away on February 10, 2022, at Mackenzie Health Hospital.

Loving husband of Irma Loy McLean, for 56 years. Cherished father of Lloyd, Wayne and Lesley. Caring and proud grandfather of Malachi. Loving brother to surviving sister Drena Gordon. He will be greatly and sadly missed by many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Born August 13, 1922 in Curepe, Trinidad. The second of 13 to Jack and Hilda McLean. An avid sportsman in his youth who played soccer and cricket and maintained his passion for sports and dancing throughout his life.

Russell, was an industrious and hard worker. He worked in the carpentry trade in Trinidad and took his skills to England in the 50’s. It was in England where he met his future wife and followed her to Toronto Canada, where they were married on his birthday in 1965.

Russell and Irma’s relationship thrived and blossomed, as well as their entrepreneurial spirit. They worked together in the Retirement Home Industry, running a series of successful businesses. This was highlighted with the both of them receiving the key to the city from the mayor, in Renfrew Ontario in the 1980’s. They continued, in this business as partners till his retirement in the late 90’s.

After retiring, he enjoyed working in the movie and commercial business. He was an extra in such classics as Resident Evil & Spiderman. However, his breakout performance came in his 10 second cameo in 2005’s Oscar nominated film “Cinderella Man “, of which he was particularly fond.

A memorial service is to be held Saturday, February 26th at York Cemetery Funeral Centre. 160 Beecroft Road, Toronto, On M2N 5Z5. A live link will be available at above this memorial page, only on the day of the service.