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Keith MCLEAN Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Keith MCLEAN
7 Entries
Tom Lee
August 11, 2024
Keith (Mr. McLean) taught me computer science in high school back in the early 1980's when desktop computers emerged. He had the vision and tenacity to bring a classroom of early Commodore PET computers to a working class high school in Downsview when even the "best" schools were teaching computers as if they were accounting tools meant for big companies. He encouraged us to experiment and create. He let us hang out late at night and his courses allowed a handful of us to earn our first steps in what would turn out to be a lifetime of rewarding geeky exploration.
I reflect on just a tiny group of this early cohort and I can draw a straight line between Mr. McLean's Downsview digital sandbox and major advancements among some of the most influential enterprises and organizations in the world: Apple, Microsoft, Meta, Morgan Stanley, and through my own work, major technical universities. Our portfolio encompasses some of the most interesting and innovative work in high performance computing, digital gaming and entertainment, financial computing, AI, and autonomous robotic technology.
A few months prior to the Pandemic, this little group had planned a reunion in Silicon Valley with Mr. McLean as our guest. We wanted to personally thank him but also show him where his work led too. We're so sad that this never came about due to the pandemic then us not having the foresight to bring the initiative back.
To the family of Mr. McLean, I do hope that my comments here offer a few more anecdotes to help you reconcile your grief. He was a special man who came into my life at a very special time and allowed us live our lives on our own terms. Thank you Keith.
Dr. Thomas Lee PhD LLD FCAE
Retired professor, McMaster University
P.S. Due to severe health challenges, I am unable to join the service to pay my respects in person. Please feel free to add the above comments to any open collection well wishes or memories as part of the service.
Lisa G
August 10, 2024
Just found out this news. Keith was my first mentor while in high school. He saw skills and talents in me that helped me form a great life and career. I was so lucky to reconnect and see him over the last 10 years. He will be greatly missed for his commitment to help, teach and support all.
Sending love to Beth and his family.
John Prisco
November 13, 2023
I just heard the very sad news of Keith's passing. Keith was one of my favourite teachers at Northern, and then in adult life we became friends, and would share a pint on occasion at the Rose and Crown. I coached both Ian and Neil. They were not only really good football players, but they were great knockoff's of Keith, with their sense of humour and kindness, authenticity,and ability to always make me laugh. I am so sorry to all of you for your loss of a great Husband, Father, Grandfther, Teacher and Man.
Sincerely,
John Prisco
Julian Porter
September 23, 2023
A wonderful man,bright cheerful and a fine friend.A truly extraordinary teacher.
Fun to play tennis with.
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Beverly Stager
September 22, 2023
To Beth and Family
Our family have happy memories of Keith, yourself and your boys( when very young) visiting Keith's aunt Mary McLean at our cottage she rented Georgian Bay near Parry Sound. Keith was always the one Mary leaned on and you were all so special to her. I am so sorry for your loss of such a fine man . May happy memories give you comfort now and into the future. With sympathy Beverly Stager
JUDY ANDERSON
September 17, 2023
Keith, many years ago, your visit to the hospital to see Colin, when he had pleurisy, was special. What a fine time the three of us had! I see the two of you sharing a beer, when you're not singing in the best of choir stalls in saecula saeculorum.
"May flights of angels sing thee to thy rest."
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