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BORN
1948
DIED
2017
Stuart McLean Obituary
McLean had skin cancer.
A message on the show's official website said a public tribute to McLean is pending.
"Stuart always emphasized that the world is a good place, full of good people, trying to do their best," the statement reads in part. "He believed in people’s extraordinary capacity for love and generosity. And he had faith in our ability to work together for the common good.
"He was, in other words, firmly committed to celebrating the positive, joyful and funny side of life. Stuart assured us that even in difficult times, we can find things to be grateful for and ways to laugh. Now that he is gone, we will try hard to do just that."
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Andrew Stuart McLean was born April 19, 1948, in Montreal, Canada. After graduating from Sir George Williams University, he began his longtime career with the Canadian Broadcasting Corp., first as a researcher for a program titled "Cross Country Checkup." In the 1970s and '80s, he prepared documentary programs for the CBC.
During the 1980s and '90s, McLean wrote and produced human interest features for the "Morningside" show that focused on everyday people doing extraordinary things. His first book, "The Morningside World of Stuart McLean," was a collection of stories that he presented on the program.
In 1994, McLean presented "The Vinyl Cafe" for the summer. The title is a reference to a fictional record shop run by the proprietor named Dave. His activities and experiences with friends and family proved popular among listeners of the hourlong Sunday radio variety program. He wrote a number of books based on the show including "Vinyl Cafe Unplugged" (2001), "Vinyl Cafe Diaries" (2003); Secrets From the Vinyl Cafe" (2006); and "Dave Cooks the Turkey" (2006), which drew from a favorite holiday skit about Dave's culinary mishaps.
Four years later, McLean performed "The Vinyl Cafe" shows on tour in venues across Canada and the U.S. The touring stopped in 2015, however, following McLean's melanoma diagnosis.
McLean was also noted for his charitable work, most notably with Camp Kanawana, a summer camp that empowers children and teenagers to "learn to care for themselves, each other and the environment," according to "The Vinyl Cafe" website.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and other fans of McLean took to social media to express their condolences.
"On the Vinyl Cafe and in communities across the country, Stuart McLean told uniquely Canadian stories," Trudeau tweeted. "We'll miss his humour and humanity."
Memories and Condolences
for Stuart McLean
146 Entries
Constance Spek
February 14, 2025
Stuart came into our homes like a beloved neighbour. No matter what the `topic´ of the Vinyl Cafe episode, he always brought a smile to the room. He was unabashedly a true Canadian at heart. He wanted us to be as well - a nation of proud and caring individuals. Stuart´s legacy lives on in each of us. C Spek, Midhurst, Ontario.
Carmen Pearce
February 2, 2025
I have loved Stuart´s stories for a very long time - first as guest on Morningside with Gzowsky, and then his own Vinyl Cafe stories. So terribly sorry he didn´t live to a ripe old age. Certainly a Canadian treasure now lost.
Macrina
October 13, 2023
Stuart McLean happened by accident on my radio while travelling from Edmonton to Calgary on a beautiful sunny Saturday morning. Traffic was light, and I was excited to be spending the weekend with friends. Well, what a delightful and amusing surprise to be listening to this storyteller, whom I had not heard of prior to this road trip. I was laughing and crying for a full hour, and could not care less who observed this emotional rollercoaster as Stuart McLean's voice regaled us with amusing, heart-warming human stories. There will never be another, and my heart aches for those days, in my twenties, during the 90's, when life seemed so carefree, and yet, so caring. I have several of his books and CD's(which I still listen to in my vehicle, YES, it still has a CD player!). May we all remember him and be motivated to imitate in our lives, what he sought to bring to us through his storytelling.
Anthony Delmedico
November 18, 2019
I remember pursuing through my podcast feeds looking for storytelling podcasts, and stumbling across the Vinyl Cafe. Having never even heard of it before, and only knowing of Stuarts existence, but not really knowing anything about him.
I took a shot and became hooked. I suddenly found myself binging through the podcast Freds live airing shows, and loving every minute of it. Eventually, I came to feel like I knew Stuart personally, craving new episode feeds once I caught up on the back catalogue.
His demeanour, and delivery was bar none, and the live concept was truly entertaining. It was storytelling for sympathetic intellectual sorts, yet Stuart set tone of honesty, and humbleness.
Today every now and then I slap on an episode to bring me back. Especially his Xmas episodes. They entertained me most, with Dave Cooks the Turkey being an traditional staple every lead Up to Dec. 25th.
Yet, every time I listen, I cant help but feel both grateful, and sad. Grateful because Stuart left behind an excellent legacy through his books, and media. But also sad because I miss him and wish for more.
Rest In Peace, Stuart. Your gone, but not forgotten.
Denise Moore
October 21, 2018
It's been awhile and I still miss your voice. You represent home, to me. They say you can always go home, but the truth is that you can't, because it's never the same as you remember. Much love to your friends and family, my heart is still broken but the love and thankfulness always shines through. Much love.
David
September 11, 2018
Loved the show. Stuart made his characters come alive as if they were real and so were their stories. He is missed.
Sue Rucker
January 4, 2018
Through out 2017, I kept looking for and searching for the Vinyl Cafe podcast. I had moved and couldn't get it on my radio anymore. I had been so frustrated. I finally realized I had one last download and it was dated 2017! I put my ear plugs in and was so excited to hear Stuart again! yeah! yummy radio!! Then NO!! I heard he was dead and this was his last. Oh, he made my world brighter and meaningful. His show was the best radio!.
I will miss him and am so sad for all those who have been mourning his loss, yet surely those same folks are reaching out to find joy in our world as he honored the joy and wanted us to find it too.
I am a/was a Big USA fan from Chicago and now the hills of Virginia.
May he rest in Peace
Daniel
December 31, 2017
I can't beleive I just found about his passing today. Where have I been..Listening to him Saturday mornings while driving from Ottawa to Sudbury for an hour of the 5 hour journey was amazing. Even when I didn't have to travel I'd go for a drive just to forget bout life and find out what crazy adventures dave would get I to. Or plan my errands around the vinyl cafe time slot.. Many incredible folks passed this year, for me this is the hardest, I feel like I lost a family member who with stories, could make life seem like no matter what things would be ok. Musical guest and the story exchange were always perfect. I am truly saddened by his passing
We may not be big, but we're small...
Vincent Russo
October 31, 2017
There was something about listening to Stuart McLean that made me feel good. Thank-You, R.I.P.
Joe Curtis
October 5, 2017
May your soul rest in peace, Stuart. THanks for all the laughs and memories
Debra cann
August 14, 2017
Our hearts broke at the news of Stuart's passing. No, we never knew him, but we felt like family every Monday evening, here in Grand Marais, Minnesota. His presence is missed by me and! my husband. God bless you and your family.
Debbie and Buck Cann
MA
May 26, 2017
I send peace to the family. The swift do not always win the race, nor do the mighty win the battle, nor do the wise always have the food, nor do the intelligent always have the riches, nor do those with knowledge always have success, because time and unexpected events overtake them all.Ecclesiastes 9:11
Bess Lysy
May 23, 2017
I absolutely loved his Vinyl Cafe Stories. He was a Great Orator that told the story just right. He will be sadly missed!
Brian & Lucie Daley
May 9, 2017
So deeply grateful for his life, his creativity, his sheer joy in the world. So deeply saddened by his death.
Our sincere condolences to the McLean Family -- and our thanks for so selflessly sharing him with us.
Peace to all.
May 7, 2017
WHAT A UNIQUE VOICE IN STORYTELLING. LOVED THE HUMOUR AND HUMANITY IN THE STORIES. THANKS FOR THE VINYL CAFE AND SO MUCH MORE! SORRY THAT WE COULD NOT KEEP YOU LONGER TO ENJOY YOUR WHIT AND WISDOM DISPENSED OVER THE RADIO - A GREAT SATURDAY MORNING COFFEE WITH CBC RADIO, KNODS OF AGREEMENT TO THE FOIBLES AND PLUSES OF YOUR CHARACTERS, AND SOMETIMES EVEN DEEP BELLY LAUGHS AND TEARS. YOU ARE MISSED STUART.
JACK BARNES (LONDON, ONTARIO)
Maria McCarthy
April 4, 2017
I just heard of your passing only very recently and still find it hard to believe. You have touched so very many people with your heartfelt, witty stories over so many years. It was always a pleasure to listen to you on Saturday mornings, such a nice and comforting way to start the weekend. You are sadly missed. Rest in peace.
Denise Moore
March 22, 2017
We've lost a unique and special man. My sincerest condolences to your family.
Rick Watson
March 19, 2017
We had the pleasure to see him live many times and to think now he is gone is so sad. Thank you for the wonderful memories and you will be missed.
Dave Tjart
March 18, 2017
Just read "Figs" again recently--in my view, it's your far-and-away best story. Thank you for the great joy you have brought me and my family. And as they say in the US Marines, fair winds, and following seas, good friend.
Gail Hartman
March 6, 2017
Rest in peace Stuart . You will be sorely missed . Thank you for all
Your great stories . No one can ever replace you .RIP
Deborah Guthrie
March 5, 2017
Hey Stuart Already miss you profoundly in so many ways. Sunday at noon is just not the same without you and Vinyl Cafe, Thanks so much for everything you gave our family. You made a difference, Stuart, and that is what life is all about. Bless you.
Denise Moore
March 1, 2017
Godspeed Stuart. Thank you for your wonderful stories. You are missed.
Mrs. Heather Podrow
March 1, 2017
I still get tears when I think of Stuart-he was a light in our lives and a truly remarkable and gifted man.
Thank you Stuart for the love you showered us with for all these years.
February 28, 2017
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
LINDSAY BLAIR BROWN
February 26, 2017
I am deeply saddened and touched more than I would ever have thought by the untimely passing of Stuart McLean. It's one of these lessons for me about how much we take for granted in our lives. I didn't have a regular routine of listening to Stuart, but whenever I heard his voice, I'd perk up and listen. It was a magnetic voice, a warm, comfortable voice to listen to, with so much wit, depth and clever turn of phrase.
His legacy of his stories is a gift and I take comfort in knowing that we can always hear him whenever we want.
The tears still rise and fall so easily when I think of this great human being.
Deepest sympathy to his family and close friends.
with love
Lindsay Blair Brown
x
Sharon Levine
February 26, 2017
Stuart and I first met back in 1969 when we were both working at Kamp Kanawana and we have been friends ever since. Though we saw each other infrequently over the many years since then, it was always so incredible to be with him in person or "at" the Vinyl Cafe. His stories are so special, and always made me laugh. And, so many made me cry too. The wisdom and insight of Stuart ( and Dave and company ) will always be with me. Stuart, thank you. With my love, Sharon
Janice Bird
February 25, 2017
Sundays in our home will never be the same without the great stories of Dave, Morley, Stephanie, Sam and all the other characters that he created.
Rest in peace Stuart, you will surely be missed❤❤
Elizabeth Price
February 23, 2017
Stuart walks with the Angels and he is as winsome and witty as ever. Heaven will be delighted to hear his Dave and Morley stories. Stuart McLean was indeed an engaging raconteur. We'll never forget those Christmas concerts at Convocation Hall...Thank you Stuart. Rest easy.
My favourite story was Dave and the Duck since I had lost my wife's engagement ring.
David B. Haukenfrers
February 21, 2017
Stuart's gentle spirit went beyond his shy and humble stories that have touched so many Canadians. For many years depression ran uncontrolled in my life, and each time I would see his Christmas show I knew that I had lived another year. He was my support calling me in hospital and both my wife and me at home just to see how I was getting on. His Christmas show in Kitchener, ON was just as much a part of Christmas as is turkey. A group of ten would go each year and the last two years has shown that Cancer is the Grinch who stole Christmas. Since he was such a support to me, I gifted him a walking stick that I used for walking. It was an aboriginal stick that included bone, and antler rattles, and he told me it was in his living room years later. Stuart I hope this stick will take you to the next world, and maybe you can introduce new music to the angels. David B. I Haukenfrers Cambridge, ON
Stuart will be greater missed.
C. Fitzgerald
February 21, 2017
Stuart will be missed. He gave so much to Canadians with his wit, warmth and grace. He left us too soon.
February 21, 2017
I have set my radio to 4:30am every sunday to hear this guy one of the best story tellers ever
Lisa Jones
February 20, 2017
Our sincerest, prayers and deepest sympathy for your loss. Many times I would say I should send in our story to share with him. Sadly I didn't but Stuart brought much laughter to my household. It started with Sunday afternoon drives-my husband would take our boys out for a drive they would listen to Stuart share Dave's life, enjoy a box of smarties and many laughs together. I would enjoy an hour of quiet at home but when they got home the boys would be sure to bring me up to speed on what Stuart shared this week. As my family grew became adults we had the pleasure many, many times to see Stuart in person. Truly an honour. An amazing man. May God Bless you during this time and always.
Ken Williams
February 20, 2017
My sincere condolences to all the family and friends of Mr. Stuart Mclean. To those who were close to him, this must be a heavy loss as he was such a rich and meaningful character.
I did not know him personally but felt I did know him almost as a close friend through his stories on radio and written.
Stuart had a speaking style which was warm, engaging, and certainly anticipating.
When working night shift at Pearson Airport there were times I went into work a few minutes late because I could not turn off my car radio until I had heard the end of one of his stories on the CBC.
Stuart could make this huge country seem like a small old time village with his acute ability to connect us through his stories and particularly, his CBC radio sessions. Stuart was most able also to promote other artists and share the performance spotlight generously.
Mr. Stuart Mclean, I salute you and thank you most sincerely.
Louise Young
February 20, 2017
Driving home one Sunday after church I was tuned into CBC radio and listened to Stuart for the first time. He was telling the story of Kenny Wong's Practical Joke. I was hooked. Since then I have enjoyed Stuart's concerts, books and weekly radio show, The Vinyl Cafe. Thank you Stuart for bringing so much joy to so many. You will be sadly missed. Your light burned out far too soon. It was a priviledge to meet you. Sincere condolences to your family and many friends.
Vinyl Cafe Tour CBC Toronto
Sharleine Haycock
February 20, 2017
I extend my sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathies to Stuart's family, his friends and all his fans who are mourning the loss of this great Canadian icon. I often listened to the Vinyl Cafe on my way home from church.
I loved it as it always gave me a lift and a new perspective on life. One such Sunday in 2009, shortly after I'd lost my wonderful husband, Stuart was telling the story about how he almost missed the entire funeral of his old school friend Bob 'Bobby' Warren of Kitchen, ON as he related their school-days friendship and how they'd drifted apart over the years. He had been struck by learning that the song they played before he and another friend finally made it to the funeral, was a tune by the Everly Brothers: Let It Be Me. Stuart was particularly struck by one verse:-
I bless the day I found you..."I want to stay around you". He wondered if perhaps that had been Bobby and his wife's favorite song; perhaps they had danced to it. But, it was the 2nd line in that verse that Stuart pondered, stating, "after all....that's all we really want isn't it? - someone to just 'stay around'. By the time I got thru listening to that episode, I could hardly see to drive. It evoked such emotion, I just had to have a copy of that show. Even though episodes weren't for sale at their online store, Stuart saw to it that his office send me a special CD of that very episode no charge. I have it to this day and just played it again upon learning of his passing. Stuart touched so many lives, it is impossible to measure how many people his presence and generous spirit impacted. I remember making my way in down-town T.O. to the bowels of the CBC parking garage to attend one of his live shows when he did the Vinyl Cafe tour. I had the great honour of meeting Stuart following his wonderful performance at which I was given a free copy of his latest book. Stuart shall be greatly missed, but certainly never forgotten. He made such a contribution to Canadian Society. I will always be grateful for having known him, albeit ever so briefly. Rest in peace Stuart.
Very sincerely,
Sharleine Haycock
Belleville, ON
(Formerly of Mississauga)
Myrna Daniels
February 20, 2017
The battle's done; no words unsaid,
So gently, gently lay your head
on angels'wings and safely rest
and know that you are "heaven blessed"
And hear these words from God above
"You left a legacy of love" written by Myrna McEwen Daniels Victoria B.C.
Melody Newcombe
February 20, 2017
My deepest sympathy and condolences to Stuart Maclean's family and friends, he will be missed. The first time I heard Stuart was on my lunch hour at work. A co-worker brought in the CD Odd Jobs, we plugged it into the computer and started listening. Before I knew it there were at least 10 other people we worked with standing in my office laughing, one of my co-workers was laughing so hard she started to cry. Best lunch ever. After that I was hooked.
That year I saw my first Stuart McLean Christmas Concert in Vancouver and I loved every minute of the show. Since then I have listened on Sundays mornings to the Vinyl Cafe. I love all of his stories, he made me laugh, cry and touched my heart. One of my favourite stories is the Fig Tree. Thank you Stuart McLean for your wonderful stories, you will be deeply missed.
Sylvana De Bortoli
February 20, 2017
Deepest sympathy and condolences to Stuart Maclean's family and friends. I always enjoyed him on the CbC. Sometimes so funny and always enjoyable. He will be dearly missed. Blessings.
Sylvana De Bortoli, Ottawa.
Michele D
February 20, 2017
In the last few years, twice a month, I made a long drive from my home to my Dad's place in another city to care for him on weekends. My dad sadly passed from Alzheimer's in 2014. But I always timed my drives to include the Vinyl Cafe and came to love Stuart McLean's honesty, creativity and humour. He helped to make a difficult time better. His love for family and community was a complete delight. He was a true Canadian. Thank you, Stuart.
Dean Hummel
February 20, 2017
My condolences to the McLean family and their friends on your great loss. I first encountered Stuart during a dark time in my life when my father was ill, and I drove him to and from dialysis three times a week. On those drives, we discovered Stewart and The Vinyl Café. His stories, and the music he played, brought humour and joy into a difficult time in our lives. He has held a special place in my heart ever since. Thank you Stuart, for sharing your gift with us. We are better for having known and heard you.
William Redfearn
February 20, 2017
We discovered Stuart the Vinyl Cafe and hapless Dave's misadventures while on holiday in Canada. We were recommended by the manager of Chapters in Fredricton. Since than we have bought subsequent books and CDs and listening to it online. A family Christmas tradition is playing the Vinyl Cafe Christmas concert on Christmas Eve while making our preparations.
I trust that more CDs and books will be released.
We will miss the eclectic radio shows and Stuart's gentle voice and manner.
We never did get to a Christmas concert!
February 20, 2017
Please accept my condolences on the loss of your love one.
Danielle Bauer
February 19, 2017
Sincere condolences to Stuart's family, friends and colleagues. Our Saturday mornings will never be the same without him. Many times while in the car and having reached my destination, I would stay to listen to the end of Dave and Morley's story. He also gave us an interesting perspective into our towns and cities throughout Canada. Rest in peace Stuart and thank you for the laughter!
Joan Armstrong
February 19, 2017
Stuart
You brought so much Joy world.
I looked forward to Vinyl Cafe Every Sunday on CBC and your Christmas concerts every year
God had blessed us with your gifts and
Life and that we are so grateful
Safe Journey and see you
In Heaven
Always
Joan
William Disbrow
February 19, 2017
Thank you Stuart...the best storyteller I have ever heard. No radio show ever captivated me the way you did. I loved the music and the artists you introduced me to. I loved you and your warmth. Your humour. Your friendly, lovable inflections when telling us stories that were always so human, so much fun, so easy to relate to. It was clear you derived joy from telling them and I can assure you that joy carried over to your listeners.
I hope I can carry a little of you into my life and the way I approach people and the issues we all face.
I will miss looking forward to your stories, to telling people they should listen to a guy who made me so proud to be a Canadian and I am so happy I have the podcasts to listen to.
You seemed like the best, brightest, most lovable big kid we could ever know and I thank you for it.
Jude Corbett-Campbell
February 19, 2017
You stirred my soul from memories past, also being my "moral compass" entertaining me with gut wrenching humour & great new tunes......thanx Stuart
Jennifer Hromyk
February 19, 2017
Long listening fan of the Vinyl Cafe for decades consistingly bringing me to laughter, that wouild often end in tears. He also did a wonderful job of introducing me to so many amazing musical artists that I would have knonw had I not been listening. A huge fan of the Prairie Home Companion as well, similar show format with Garrison Keilor telling his stories and having amazing music guests each week as well. Love you both. After living in the states for 10 years, both coasts, and there I was able to stay faithful to the Vinyl Cafe online and The Prairie Home Companion. My weekends were filled with wonder and delight. I'm going to miss my dear friend, Stewart McLean...
Ruby Carey
February 19, 2017
We have not just lost Stuart but we have lost Dave and Morley and all those lovely people. My heart is broken yet I am so thankful to have shared a part of my life with you.
Donna Fontana-Smith
February 19, 2017
Of all the programs I listen to on public radio, "The Vinyl Cafe" was the one I hated to miss on Sunday at 3pm. When I tuned in today I learned of his death. What an amazing story teller. I am fortunate to listen to past podcasts and will forever smile because of his stories and real life sense of humor. My condolences to his family.
Deborah Weis
February 19, 2017
Sundays will just not be the same.....how I loved listening to the Vinyl Café.
I extend my sincerest condolences to Stuart's family, friends and co-workers.
Leslie Mercer
February 19, 2017
The Vinyl Café, Morningside with Peter, especially when Stuart was on, were those radio programmes you stayed in the car when you'd reached your destination to listen to, so as not to miss anything. Then you'd emerge from your car when it was over, and walk into Safeway or wherever you were going, laughing to yourself. Dave and his turkey will be with so many Canadians still for Christmases to come. My condolences to his family and friends, though I think we all need condolences. - Leslie Mercer
starleen ryan
February 19, 2017
who will make me laugh now.
Miah LeBlanc
February 19, 2017
Stuart,
Your stories played such a huge role in my childhood. I will forever remember the warm, happy feeling of eating Sunday lunch with my family while we eagerly listened about what Dave had been up to.
Thank you for making radio programs accessible and enjoyable for all Canadians. Your work is something that my husband and I have already started to share with our young family.
February 19, 2017
May the God of peace bring serenity to the family during your time of bereavement.
Anne Whyte
February 19, 2017
My first thought upon awakening to the news of Stuart Mclean's death was: What will we all do without Dave and Morley? Canada will be bereft of great humour, compassion, and the best of human virtues.
Sincerest condolences to his family and friends and to all of us who loved him.
Carol Andree
February 19, 2017
Stuart. So happy I stumbled on radio 2 over 20 years ago. Never missed the beautiful stories you told. I will miss you very much. Love Carol Andree. Calgary Alberta. Rip.
Leslie Hallock
February 19, 2017
What a wonderful storyteller and a true Canadian legend! Many times over the years I have enjoyed listening to the Vinyl Cafe on CBC Radio, where Stuart would deliver his magic on the radio. Plenty of tears mixed with laughter. Stuart, you are very much missed but at least we have your books and your radio broadcasts to keep your magic alive and everlasting!Thank you for so enriching our lives with your great gifts. -- Leslie H.
February 19, 2017
What a wonderful person you were and what a wonderful legacy of stories you have left for us to continue to enjoy. I feel so fortunate I had the opportunity to get to know you on the radio. I have no doubt you've become the most popular storytelling angel!
Christine Westover
Roy
February 19, 2017
The messages were many given in a subtle and not so subtle way. Listen to him faithfully for years. I will certainly miss his humility and candour.
Anthony Burt
February 19, 2017
Stuart....
I have no excuse for putting off getting tickets to the "Vinyl Cafe" for local shows oher than my work schedule being so hectic. I wanted to share my love for your show and the great stories about Dave and Morley and made them feel like they were my own family that i heard second hand stories about when i couldn't be home. I laughed with them and teared up on just the right cues, for your mastery of timing, and I felt very often like they were relatives I hardly every got to see.
Your passing has left a hole in my days, and I was genuinely saddened to hear of your passing. It came as quite a shock as I actually listened to your Valentines show literally the previous day.
To keep this short, I just wanted to extend my deepest condolences to your family on your passing, and hopefully they will read this and know they touched someone who your stories touched ona level I can't even describe; when my days seemed dark - the brightest note came from hearing your tales.
The world is a bleaker place this week with your loss, Stuart. I hope you're in your element beyond the pearly gates, entertaining the angels with your ability as only you can tell a story, keeping them riveted with your mastery of writing.
Good bye sir... I feel as Ive lost a cousin in you.
Anthony Burt, Hillsburgh Ontario
February 19, 2017
Stuart made you laugh at yourself, at himself, and his humor was simply contagious. Loved his books, his way of accepting life's challenges and I will miss him very much. Easily made life so much more enjoyable with his talent. RIP Stuart!
Bob Hilson
February 18, 2017
Stuart McLean,
Weaved a web across Canada that did not entrap Canadians, but embraced us, bringing us all together, enlightened our lives, brought us joyous humour, appreciation of each other and our diversity. He will be sadly missed.
Bob Hilson.
Marianne/Jim Steele
February 18, 2017
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow -
Carol
February 18, 2017
A comment made by someone summed up my experience with the Vinyl Cafe... how many times was I stuck in my car or not able to leave wherever I was because I was caught up listening to Stuart Mclean - countless. I am in recovery and I feel like he helped me get in touch with feelings I spent years trying to avoid. At first the feelings were powerful and sometimes unsettling and, over the years, I looked forward to the journey he would take me on... all within an hour... over twenty years... a very big loss. And what about the Arthur award??
Caroline Wickham
February 18, 2017
~ dear Stuart .. your stories for Morningside on CBC Radio, in the 1980s kept me going when delivering the mail for Canada Post became so repetitive. Thank you and God bless you!
- caroline
February 18, 2017
Stuart you were a good friend I could not wait for Sunday to listen to the vinyl cafe.....you will be missed
Tony foggoa
Halifax ns
E murchison
February 18, 2017
Stuart was a helpful, positive and important formitive influence in my life for a short while some 30 years ago. I feel honoured to have known him and to have been a guest in his home.
Such a kind and warm man. He had such a huge and happy impact on the lives of so many, many people.
E M
Ottawa
February 18, 2017
I can't stop crying, I feel like my dad just died
Lisa Gunther
February 18, 2017
It was my Grandma that first turned me on to The Vinyl Cafe, in the way-back-when's. After she passed, I moved to Indiana. As an avid listener to the Cafe broadcasts, I got wind that the show was coming to Indy and if I didn't make that show with two tickets in my hand (one for me an one for my Gram), I knew I would be missing something very precious. I went by myself and sat next to an empty seat that my Gram would be been sitting in. Mr. McLean was something very special, I cried and laughed through the entire show and I still remember the band, The Birds of Chicago. His Dave and Morely stories were the best, but Mr. McLean gave them life and he was such an amazing storyteller with a heart better than gold. I pray for his family with their loss of such an incredible person. Long live The Vinyl Cafe and all it's staff - a loving fan
February 18, 2017
God you made me laugh - you brought tears of happiness - you made me want to carve out an hour every Sunday. My dog would look at me like I was nuts - I was just LOL with you and your dry wit. God bless I wish I could give you a hug.
February 18, 2017
So very sad to learn of Stuart's passing ...the tears keep flowing . A wonderful story teller and entertainer . His wit and humor will live on through his stories , books and recordings . Heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.
February 18, 2017
Stuart was a part of my life on Sundays, listening to his stories and music at the Vinyl Cafe. He was a dear, kind man, always emphasizing the good in mankind. I also saw him in Vancouver twice for his X-mas shows.
We have lost a wonderful Canadian, and I will miss him.
Susanne, Burnaby, BC
Gwen
February 18, 2017
Stuart McLean represented the best of Canada, and also the world. I am a long time listener and
feel that I, too, have lost a good friend. The world has lost a
fine man and a great
role model.
February 18, 2017
Stuart made each and every one of us a part of "the Vinyl Cafe" family. He helped me through my troubled times by providing laughs, tears and a positive perspective on life. Many men, I believe can relate to Dave and that is a gift given us all by Stuart. I will miss the sense of humanity he brought to his audience.
Ken Forler (Bayfield, Ontario)
February 18, 2017
I will miss you. I have loved your stories that have made me laugh out loud and occasionally shed a tear. You were a gift to all of us who sat down to listen to stories and music with you every week. Canadiens all over the country will feel your loss for a long time to come. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. They will know that you were well loved and your legacy will live on.
Carol Paterson
February 18, 2017
You brought laughs and smiles to all !! You will always be remembered!!
Marla
February 18, 2017
I have loved your stories and The Vinyl Cafe Show for many many years. I will miss this Sunday Morning ritual. My condolences to Stuart's family. He was a true Canadian icon. RIP
John Lynch
February 18, 2017
Through his travels and broadcasts, Stuart reminded us that Canada, for all its size, is a nation of communities and, above all, people and he celebrated that each week on The Vinyl Cafe. God bless.
John (Calgary, AB)
February 18, 2017
RIP Stuart, knowing that the great gift of your humor and your stories live on. Thanks.
scott robar
February 18, 2017
Thanks for the many laughs, Your stories are one's that bring families together for great laughter and memorable times . Long car rides and listening to your stories made the ride not so long.
RIP Storyman the Nation will miss you !
Scott Robar Lumby BC
Michelle Merko
February 18, 2017
Every Sunday my family and l would gather around the kitchen table to listen to the Vinyl Cafe while l would prepare the Sunday meal. His heart warming stories brought us both laughter and tears. No one could tell a story quite like Stuart! Thanks for the memories, you will be missed.
With love and thanks, the Merko Family XO
Ryan Heath
February 18, 2017
My father is an avid listener of the CBC and listening to your stories of Dave and Morley were just part of growing up for myself in a small northern Alberta town. You'll be greatly missed by many people across Canada.
Graham Cairns
February 18, 2017
Stuart provided laughter and happiness to thousands. I knew he would brighten my day no matter how gloomy. Rest in peace Stuart
February 18, 2017
May your family find peace and comfort in knowing sickness, pain and death will one day be no more.
February 18, 2017
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Shelley
February 18, 2017
I am so grateful for the years of stories and feel so blessed to have seen you perform twice in Thunder Bay, the last time being your final live show. It was amazing, and I will always remember it. I miss you already Stuart, and will always hold a special place in my heart for you. I don't think you truly knew how many people loved you, but I hope you know now. Rest now.
My thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and co-workers of this great man. May you find comfort in knowing Canada and the world are sending our love your way.
Orville Amyotte
February 17, 2017
As an avid listener, I conceived in my mind's eye an image of Stuart Mclean that epitomizes the best character traits one might hope to find in a person. For this gift, Stuart, I thank you.
michelle plakas-kaiser
February 17, 2017
RIP
John Wrublowsky
February 17, 2017
Christmas in Winnipeg was all the more special for me and my family because of Stuart. God Bless you and your family dear friend.
Karen Lawson
February 17, 2017
I usually don't cry when a " celebrity" passes away but I am still fighting back the tears. I have been so sad the last few days. I realized today I am grieving as I would if I had lost a good friend. I never realized the impact and influence he had on me all these years. A Canadian treasure that will be irreplaceable
p l
February 17, 2017
To the memory of a man who brought so many laughs and great stories to so many listeners. When I was undergoing treatment for breast cancer, I discovered Stuart on NPR. When I was too tired to do anything, I would engage my mind by listening to NPR. Stuart's stories certainly helped me through my treatment and beyond. He has been greatly appreciated and will be sorely missed.
Kathleen Gabelmann
February 17, 2017
Stuart McLean brought joy, laughter and tears into my life on a regular basis. Without ever meeting him in person, I felt his friendship and caring, as if he knew me, he knew what would uplift me that day, that week, that year! I like to think I learned a lot listening to Stuart's stories, and I always appreciated his brilliant descriptions of the villages, towns and cities he visited and his tales about so many persons he met in those environs. Through it all, we received the gift of his profound wisdom and his immense kindness. I'm pretty sure he wouldn't want us to forget the beautiful diversity of Canada's spaces, places and peoples. His unwavering love for Canada and all of us who live here was always present and clear, and his was a fine example for all of us to emulate. A truly wonderful human being gone to soon. I will miss him.
Jane Dowling
February 17, 2017
God bless you and your loved ones ~ Rest in peace.
Laurie Robb
February 17, 2017
I was waiting for my sister when I received the email. My heart broke and the tears flowed. I felt like I had lost my best friend. He was, is and will always be my Canada. I've met him a few times over the years at book signings or tours and he is incredible. He reaches out to each and everyone of us through his ability to make every situation in small town and big city a part of this wonderful life we have been gifted. My heart goes out to his family and close friends. He was indeed loved by millions and his stories will continue to remind us that life is good, kind and important. He has been and will be missed.
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Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
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Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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