Obituary of Allan Joseph MacLean

Allan Joseph (AJ) MacLean, 81, of Cross Roads Ohio, passed away peacefully September 6, 2023 in the R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home surrounded by his family. AJ was born January 15, 1942 to Allan Hughie and Cecilia (Druhan) of the Ohio.

Dad lived his whole life in the Ohio and was very proud to call it his home, as the staff of the R.K. were reminded daily that he wanted to go home to Cross Roads Ohio.

Dad was a school bus driver until he started working for John W. McCarron Ltd, as a truck driver and machine operator in 1973 and remained until his retirement.  He loved working in the woods and enjoyed spending his career working alongside his brother-in-law and best friend Bob MacEachern.  Dad always kept busy. He loved mechanic work, carpentry and in the spring of the year, when roads closed, he would take shifts in the mill yard. Nothing could get dad’s hands and feet going like a good fiddle tune and a hot toddy or a Keith’s. Step dancing and playing the spoons brought him so much joy, especially in his younger years, at the dances in St. Joseph’s.  He also enjoyed weekly visits from Robert & Helen MacPherson.

AJ is survived by wife of 53 years Toni (VandenHeuvel), children Anne (Paul); Allan (Tiffany); Angelina (Colin); and was a proud grandfather to Dylan, Camryn, Drew and Adelyn. Also survived by siblings Duncie MacLean, Margie MacDonald and Linda MacEachern, extended VandenHeuvel family, many nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, AJ was predeceased by brothers Bernie and Allie, and brothers-in-law Bob MacEachern and Leonard MacDonald.

We would like to extend a sincere thank you to the staff at the R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home for the wonderful care dad received, especially the compassion shown over his last few days.  

Visitation will be held from 5-8 pm on Sunday, September 10th in MacIsaac Funeral Home, Antigonish with funeral mass 10:00 am Monday in  St.Joseph’s Church, St. Joseph's, Rev. Tom Stephan presiding. Burial in the parish cemetery. Donations may be made to the R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home, Antigonish.  Family flowers only please.