Leonard Joseph MacLean

Let us tell you a story about the strongest man we have ever known — a man some knew as “the Bear,” a name he earned honestly. Yes, he was strong, and maybe even intimidating to a few, but to us he was our protector. A stern voice when needed, but also a gentle touch. You messed with family, you messed with him.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Leonard Joseph MacLean — our dad, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend — on Thursday, January 15, 2026, following a short battle with cancer.

Born in Point Aconi on October 12, 1950, Leonard was the son of the late James and Leona (Levionnois) MacLean.

He was a man who loved deeply and fiercely, especially his beloved wife Rosalie, who passed many years before him. Before his time on the lakeboats, Leonard worked in the mines of Western Canada — a chapter marked by hard work, resilience, and more than a few stories he later recounted with a twinkle in his eye.

In his early years, Leonard sailed the lakeboats, an adventure that filled his life with stories he loved to share. He would often speak of those days, spinning tales of the water, the crew, and the adventures that shaped him. But as his family grew, he left life on the lakeboats behind and chose to fish alongside family and friends for the remainder of his career, building new stories and memories on the water with those he loved most.

Leonard was also a fierce competitor, collecting trophies for both arm-wrestling and deer hunting — often claiming the biggest buck of the season. He cherished a strong cup of tea, the peace of hunting and fishing, tending to his garden, and every moment spent with his family.

Among his closest companions were lifelong friends Raymond MacLean and Dave Power — brothers not by blood but by bond — who stood by him through thick and thin. Always nearby was his small but mighty dog Zoey, whose spirited personality matched his own and who rarely left his side, whether on walks or during quiet moments at home.

His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the light of his life, and he never missed a chance to cash in on his famous “grandkid tax,” which he loved to dispense. With a spirit that seemed impossible to quiet and a wild streak that earned him the legend of having nine lives, it was easy to believe he would always be here.

Now that he is gone, the emptiness he leaves behind is impossible to ignore. His absence thunders through our hearts, leaving a void that only memories of his strength, laughter, and unwavering loyalty can hope to fill. In his absence, we are reminded to stand together, to look out for one another, and to carry his spirit forward in all we do.

“How lucky we are to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.”

To carry on his legacy are his children: John, Iris (Charlie Taylor), Angela (Troy Robertson), Robert, Jimmy Lewis, Michelle (Bob MacDonald), Evangeline, and Billy Joe; his grandchildren: Dylan, Brady, Winter, Shania, Chase, Connor, Matthew, and Keaton; and his great-grandchildren: Acacia, Declan, and Fallon.

Leonard is also survived by brothers Brian (Paulette), Joe (Carinia), Bruce, and Roy; sisters Patsy and Elizabeth (Keith); brother-in-law Edward; sister-in-law Stephanie; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents and beloved wife, Leonard was predeceased by his brothers Dougie, Terry, Gary, Russel, and Gordie; brother-in-law John (Madonna); Emerson; Augustine; and sister-in-law Evangeline.

Special thanks to Dr. Andrew Wawer, Dr. Dale Miller, Julia Penney and the palliative care team, the VON nurses, Tim and Christine from ambulatory care, and the staff at JM Jobes Funeral Home for their compassion, care, and support during Leonard’s finaldays.

This is not the end of his story. His presence will live on in our memories, in the laughter that fills our gatherings, and in the lessons he quietly impressed upon us. As we move forward, his love and wisdom will continue to guide us, reminding us to cherish each day, to look out for one another, and to always have each other’s backs — just as he always did.

In keeping with Leonard’s wishes, cremation has taken place. While no formal services will be held at this time, we know that his memory lives on in the hearts of all who loved him. Each story shared, every laugh remembered, and all the lessons he quietly taught us will continue to honor his life and spirit, keeping him close even in his absence.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Leonard Joseph MacLean, please visit our floral store.