Published in the June 29, 2018 edition
MELROSE — Robert J. McLean, 85, passed away at the Lahey Clinic in Burlington on June 25, 2018.
Robert was born and raised in the “City of Pride,” Everett, to the late Archibald and Argentina (Fiorentino) McLean. He graduated from Everett High School in 1952 where he was a three sport star in football, basketball and track. After graduation, Robert enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he served his country with pride and honor. While fighting for his country during the Korean War Robert was critically wounded in the Battle of Boulder City. For his heroic service to his country he was awarded the Purple Heart as well as numerous medals for his valor and service.
Upon his return home from the war Robert attended Suffolk University and married his high school sweetheart, and the love of his life, Arlene (Perella) McLean. Over the next 63 years they wrote the most beautiful love story ever written filled with memories of love and laughter to last a lifetime. Together they raised eight children in Melrose. Robert worked for the US Postal Service for 30 years before retiring in 1998. During his retirement years he spent his time loving the family he cherished, caring for the garden he grew and rooting for the Red Sox that drove him crazy.
His commitment to community and service over the years was fulfilled through his time and donation to the E-Club of Everett (Past President), the Knights of Columbus (4th Degree Knight), Roxbury Boys Club (coach) and The Friends of Melrose Hockey (founder).
Robert is survived by his loving wife Arlene, his son Robert J McLean Jr. and his wife Barbara of North Andover, his son Kenneth J. McLean and his wife Pilar of Miami, Fla., his daughter Laura Lee LaCob and her husband Mark of Coconut Creek, Fla., his son Michael McLean (deceased), his son Brian D. McLean and his wife Pamela of Groveland, his daughter Arlene M. Semiao and her husband Jack of North Reading, his daughter Valerie Capanna and her husband Rolando of Peabody, and his son Gregory J. McLean and his wife Elizabeth of Melrose, as well as 10 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Robert will be deeply missed by his family and friends but his strength and character will live forever.You never hurt more or dream bigger than for your children.
Visitation will be held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St. Melrose on Thursday, June 28, from 4 – 8 p.m. Funeral procession from the Gately Funeral Home on Friday morning June 29 at 9:15 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Adelaide’s Church, 708 Lowell St. Peabody at 10:30 a.m. Interment with military honors will take place at Puritan Lawn Cemetery in Peabody following the funeral Mass. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his honor to the Disabled American Veterans, The E-Club of Everett or The Friends of Melrose Hockey. To send a message of condolence please visit www.gatelyfh.com
