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BORN
1932
DIED
2015
Kenneth McLean Obituary
Kenneth J. "Doc" McLean of Bellevue passed away peacefully at his home on March 29th, after his battle with cancer. He was born in Lava Hotsprings, Idaho, on July 28th, 1932, the oldest son of William A and Anna Hallinan McLean. "Doc" graduated from the University Of Washington School Of Dentistry in 1959 and maintained a dental practice in Bellevue, Washington for 56 years. His love of dentistry extended far beyond his local practice. He was an instructor at the University Of Washington School Of Dentistry, and as a member of the Tucker Gold Study Club, mentored American dental students and taught in Italy and Germany. He was generous with his dental skills and volunteered globally; Hawaii and Kenya, as well as in the Union Gospel Mission in Seattle.
A friend and colleague summed up the affection and respect with which he was regarded by his many patients and colleagues when he noted that Doc was a person with whom you could share a desert island or a foxhole.
Doc was a veteran of the Korean War and was honored by the South Korean Government for his service. He met his wife, Muriel Hargis McLean, in the 8th grade, and remained deeply smitten through 62 years of marriage.
Doc enjoyed a broad range of interests and hobbies. He loved the outdoors, especially when skiing, fishing, and hunting could be shared with friends and family. He read voraciously and broadly, and would happily open a bottle of "Tuesday" wine and engage in lively discussions about his most recent passion. He was an avid Husky football and basketball fan and was a season ticket holder for both.
Kenneth is survived by his wife of 62 years Muriel J McLean, his brother Tom Ware DDS and sister Frances Nickel, sons Tom and Kevin McLean, daughters Sydney Walters and Shelley McLean and his beloved grandchildren Dustin, Brandon, Dayle and Lauren.
A celebration of his life was shared with friends and family on April 13th.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
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Gloria and Dennis Foro
June 30, 2018
Doc McLean was our dentist for 20 years when we lived in Bellevue. We were so sad to read of his passing. He always had a smile and referred to all the ladies as beautiful. I truly wish I'd had a chance to say goodbye. Our condolences to his family.
Greg Gorfkle
May 9, 2016
Growing up in Bellevue in the 50's and 60's Dr. McLean was our family dentist. I continued to see him until he retired. As the years wore on it became a real treat to come visit him to hear about his adventures, to have that connection with someone for so many years. What a great guy and skillful practitioner, not to mention his keen sense of humor. I'm saddened by the news of his passing and send my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. He will be missed.
Linda Stevens
July 25, 2015
I recently moved from Seattle to Kansas City and just learned about Ken's passing. He was a beloved friend and great Dentist whom will be missed by myself and many others. I enjoyed his wonderful zest for life, wicked sense of humor and benefited from his love of Dentistry. My deepest condolences to his family. Linda Stevens
Janice Pedersen
April 29, 2015
I was so sad to learn of Dr. McLean's passing. Our family also saw Dr. McLean for over 50 years, traveling back to his office for his fine care and personal approach. Condolences to his family, friends and staff. It is a great loss.
April 27, 2015
My "Uncle Doc" will forever be thought of and celebrated!!!!
LW
Bill Wittenberger
April 26, 2015
I was a former patient - from the early 60's - as were my parents and brother and sister. The entire family knew him for decades and he always treated all of us so well. We will all miss him greatly. Our condolences to his family.
Gretchen Laturner
April 24, 2015
Very sad to read this news. He was my dentist for more than 25 years. When we moved south we kept our dentist. He was worth 167 and the Renton S curves. Just the best. Condolences to family and office staff.
Kay Coulter
April 23, 2015
Dr. McLean was my dentist from the time we moved to Bellevue in 1974 till a year or so before he retired. For 20+ years I trekked up the freeway from Tacoma to see him. He was so gentle and kind to this rather phobic patient. I remember him telling me that he had patients from as far as San Francisco, who continued to "commute" for their dental care. Like me, they knew there was no other . May his family find comfort in their memories of the time they had together.
April 23, 2015
I worked for the Doc in 1979-80. He was the best dentist, employer, and all around great man. He'll be missed!
Cindy Kourkoumelis Lund
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