In Loving memory of John Duncan Maclean (Big J)

…On June 29th, 2025, John Duncan Maclean-affectionately known as “Big J” passed away peacefully. Reunited in Heaven with his beloved wife of 61 years, Margaret (Margie) Maclean (nee MacKinnon) John was born the oldest of 10 children to the late Donald Angus and Maryann Maclean. He was a devoted brother to Kaye (Late Joe), Late Ronnie (Joan), Late Sam (Ann), Florence (Late Jimmy), Margie (Late Francis), Dougal (Lexie), Joseph (Rita), Late Regina, Norman (Agnes). In 1959 John Married the love of his life, Margie. Together they built a beautiful life filled with love and laughter. In 1965, they moved from Cape Breton to Ontario, where they raised their 7 children: John (Judy). Donnie (Monica), Anne-Marie, Joanne (late Ed), Ronnie (Brooke), Mike (Maureen) and Paul (Corrinna). John was immensely proud of his growing family and leaves behind a legacy of love through his Grandchildren: Michelle (Ryan), Kaitlyn (Nick), Justin (Nicole), Emily, Nick, Madison, Ryan, Grace, Steven, Jen (Meaghan), Matthew (Jen), Hunter, Jagger, Dallas (Cassidy) and Chloe (Dylan), -as well as his cherished Great Grandchildren: Aaliyah, Ezra, Eadie, Finn, Riot, Cash, Parker and Jack.

A hard working and dedicated man, John spent 27 years as a Supervisor at Lasco Steel in Whitby, followed by 26 years as a Mechanic with Durhamway Bus Lines in Oshawa. He officially retired at the age of 83-a true testament to his unwavering work ethic.

Beyond his career, John had many passions. He loved working on cars, spending time at the horse track and Casino, playing cards with family and listening to down east fiddle music. Weekend mornings were often spent at Tim Hortons, coffee in hand, reading the Sunday Sun newspaper. Above all his favorite moments were those surrounded by family, whether in Ontario or back home in Cape Breton.

A heartfelt thank you to the compassionate staff at Strathaven Nursing Home, who cared for Dad with kindness and dignity in his final months. Your efforts brought comfort to him and peace to our family. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of John can be made to:

Glen Hill Strathaven
264 King Street East
Bowmanville, ON
L1C 1P9

Donations can either be mailed to Strathaven, to the attention of Cindy Pearce, or dropped off in person to the Business Office or to the Receptionist at the front desk.

Cheque payable to “Durham Christian Homes Society”

• In the memo line on the cheque, kindly specify “Glen Hill Strathaven”, and “in memory of John MacLean”.