BRUNSWICK — David P. MacLean, 76, died Jan. 19 with his loving wife Mabel at his side.

MacLean was born on Feb. 16, 1935 in Brunswick, the son of Ralph A. and Natalie Akeley MacLean. He grew up on Orr’s Island, where he cherished his childhood capers and lifelong friends. He graduated from Brunswick High School, holding a state record in track, attended Maine Central Institute and later entered the U.S. Army, Airborne, serving in the 111 Weapons Infantry Division. During his enlistment he served in the Korean Campaign doing reconnaissance, participated in the Desert Rock bomb testings in Nevada, endured guerrilla war training and survival training in Alaska, was on the All-Army Boxing Team and earned his Guides License for big game in Alaska.

Later in life he was a plasterer and owned and operated the MacLean Foundation Company. After meeting Mabel, he was able to return to his true love of fishing. He long-lined off the Grand Banks on the Walter Alden and bought his own lobster boat, fishing the waters of Casco Bay.

Together he and Mabel enjoyed heading north, singing in the cab, four-wheeling, fishing, hunting, friends, family and living life to the fullest. His friends and family will sorely miss his story-telling, wit, sense of humor, practical wisdom and generosity. Those who were lucky enough to have shared in his life of adventure and family will fondly remember him as “Big Dave” for his kind heart and “Wahtosh” for his hunting and fishing know-how.

MacLean was predeceased by his parents, Ralph and Natalie MacLean; brother Scott; nieces Sandra and Marti MacLean; father-in-law Raymond L. Labbe; brother-in-law Raymond M. Labbe Sr.; Roger Riendeau Jr.; nephew Alex and niece Christina Labbe. He is survived by his wife, best friend and companion of 36 years, Mabel Labbe MacLean; he is the loving father of Stephen, Tracey, Mary, Allyson and Amanda MacLean; grandchildren, Josh, Savannah, Zev, Franci and Carly; sister, Constance Baribeau; brother Mark MacLean; his in-laws and their significant others; and several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Maine Childrens Cancer Program in memory of Christina Labbe, to Make-A-Wish of Maine in memory of Alex Labbe or to a charity of choice.

In respect of his wishes, there will be no service. There will be a private celebration of MacLean’s life in the spring.


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