Randell “Randy” Charles McLean

After a courageous and heroic battle, Randell “Randy” Charles McLean, 69, of Onaway peacefully passed away Saturday, January 27, 2024.

Born April 18, 1954 in Onaway, Randy was the son of Robert and Kaye (Kesselring) McLean. He attended Onaway schools, where he participated in basketball and football. Randy earned the honor of Eagle Scout and was an altar boy at St. Paul Catholic Church. Upon graduation in 1972, Randy began his career as a lineman at Presque Isle Electric & Gas Cooperative that spanned over 50 years. He thoroughly enjoyed his job and those that he worked with, creating lifelong friendships.

In addition to his work as a lineman, Randy served as union steward for Local Union 876, was a volunteer fireman with years serving as assistant chief, taught adult education woodworking classes, served as a commercial driver’s license instructor for the area, coached baseball, operated McLean’s Welding and Metal Fabricating, and formed Shoreline Development to bring his numerous property development projects to fulfillment. 

Randy will be remembered as one of the hardest working men, passing his work ethic down to his children and grandchildren. 

Randy loved and always looked forward to his fall fishing trips to Ontario, where he would fish for pike and walleye with family and friends. In the early 1990s, Randy purchased 40 acres to create a beloved family retreat, The Cabin. 

He purchased a separate parcel of property in Cheboygan for the primary purpose of harvesting the logs off of it. 

Randy stocked a beautiful pond with bluegill so that his grandchildren would acquire his love of fishing. It was one of his best accomplishments and a place for everyone to gather and enjoy time together.

Randy’s greatest joy and proudest moments came in his role as grandfather. He adored his grandchildren and wanted to continually create lifelong memories with them. 

From annual kayaking trips on the Black River, to strawberry picking, decorating Christmas cookies, horse-drawn sleigh rides, Easter egg hunts, fishing trips, time together at hunting camp and a trip to look at Christmas lights in a 15-passenger van just so Randy could see all of his grandchildren’s reactions at once.

Randy desired to experience life through his grandchildren’s eyes. He proudly supported and attended their sporting events, with the ability to go from Cardinals’ Red to Bulldogs’ Blue sometimes in the same game.

Randy is survived by his wife, Cammy, of Onaway; his son, Erin (Allison) McLean of Onaway; his daughter, Abbey (Scott) Monthei of Indian River; and stepson Ryan (Rachel Nave) Reiger of Onaway. His loving grandchil

dren, Morgan (Caitlyn), Madison and Malaurie McLean, Ian, Mara, Ryann and Tara Clancy, Amanda, Olivia, Katie and Molly Monthei, and Stevie Reiger. Randy leaves behind his brothers, Russell (Sue) McLean and Robert McLean; sisters, Colleen (Tom) Greenwood, Patricia (Jim) Van Haaren and Kerry (Keith Wilcox) Cruse; and half-sister, Linda (Jamie) Walters; along with many nieces and nephews. Randy was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Darrell McLean and Todd McLean; and niece, Lindsey McLean.

In accordance with Randy’s wishes, the family will hold a private graveside service and burial in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make memorial contributions can do so by donating to The McLean Family Scholarship for the Trades. This scholarship has been created at Onaway Schools in memory of Randy and in support of the trades, as they hold a special place in the hearts of Randy’s family. Contributions can be made to Abbey Monthei, 4599 Wilson Road, Indian River, Michigan 49749.