Robert Cairns McLean

Robert (Bob) Cairns McLean 1921 - 2015 After a brief stay at hospital, Bob passed away Monday February 16, 2015, with his daughter at his side. Born Sept. 17, 1921 in Vermillion Alberta, to homesteaders Hugh and Mary McLean, his family soon relocated to Vancouver. Graduating from King George High School, he soon enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force to fight in the war. Before he was assigned to Britain, he married Melva (Durland), who would be his wife for 65 years. In 1945 he flew with the RAF BQ 550 Squadron, flying bombing missions to Germany, then dropping food to the Netherlands, and finally to fly liberated POWs back to Britain. After the war, he joined the Vancouver Fire Department, where he would serve as a fire-fighter, and a first responder with Rescue and Safety for 30 years. Over the years Bob actively contributed to groups and organizations close to his heart such as the Royal Canadian Air Cadet program (Officer and C/O of 637 Arrow Squadron), Air Crew Association, Royal Canadian Legion, Vancouver Retired Fire Fighters Association, Horse Protection Society of B.C. and more. He was a man who made friends easily, and who kept them for life, from his best friend from High School who survives him today, to his friends from work and volunteer organizations, to his new and dear friends he has made in his last few years at the Poppy Residence. Predeceased by his parents, his brother, his wife and his sister-in-law, Bob is survived by son Rob McLean, daughter Wendy McLean, nephew Garry (Nancy) Alexander, and the Alexander family: David (Paul), Matthew, Erin (Bobby), and Penelope.

A celebration of Bob's life will be held at the Firefighter's Banquet Hall 6515 Bonsor St., in Burnaby (Metrotown), on March 15th at 3:30 PM. In lieu of flowers, should you feel the call, please donate to the charity of your choice.