Obituary of Frederick George MCLEAN

May 10, 1923 – Virden, Manitoba July 11, 2016 – Calgary, Alberta Frederick George (Bud) McLean passed away peacefully on July 11, 2016 at the Seton Agecare Centre in Calgary. Bud was 93 years old. Bud was born, raised and educated in the Virden and Hargrave, Manitoba areas. He was the third of five sons of Frederick Middleton and Annie McLean. He was predeceased by his parents and his brothers, Raymond, Lemuel, Dale and Glen. He joined the Virden Dragoons a local militia unit at an early age. After the outbreak of World War II, he joined the Lord Strathcona Horse (Royal Canadians). Thus began a near-lifelong affiliation with his Regimental family, the Strathconas. He served overseas with his Regiment in Italy and North-West Europe. Bud was the regimental boxing champion in his weight class. At the time of his death, Bud was the last surviving Reconnaissance Troop member of the battle of Melfa Crossing, an action in which numerous bravery commendations and medals, including a Victoria Cross were awarded. Bud was presented with the Military Medal (MM) at Buckingham Palace by His Majesty, King George VI in 1945. At the coronation of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II he proudly stood guard for his nation outside Canada House in London. After his military service he had an eclectic working career. Starting as a grain elevator attendant, he also held various positions with Manitoba Power Commission, later Manitoba Hydro. He was a union organizer with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW); worked with Labour Canada; and lastly served with the Canadian Corps of Commissionaires. Throughout his life he had a love of sports and the outdoors. In his youth he excelled in track, baseball, hockey, and later boxing. In 1939 he was awarded a medal during the Royal Visit to Canada by King George VI for winning a cross country race in Elkhorn, Manitoba. He had a lifelong passion for fishing and was still taking his boat and auger out fishing in his 80’s. His record setting pickerel was a particular source of pride. In 1995, Bud was honoured to be selected to represent all Canadian servicemen for a 50th Anniversary marking the end of WW11 in Italy. During this trip he had an audience with His Holiness Pope John Paul II. Bud is survived by his children, Grant (Tena) of Duncan B.C., Donna (Randy) Remington of Calgary, AB, Brad of Okotoks, AB and Marcia (David) Buchholz of Priddis, AB; seven grandchildren, Andrea, Leah, Ryan, and Alanna Remington, Hayley and Jordan Buchholz, Tyler McLean; and five great-grandchildren as well as numerous nephews, nieces, grand-nephews and grand-nieces. Bud also leaves to mourn his sweetheart of 13 years, longtime friend, and constant companion, Joyce Penner. The family also wishes to thank his caregiver Laila Kiemova for her faithful service. With respect to Buds wishes no funeral services will be held. Condolences may be forwarded through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In living memory of Bud McLean, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Deerfoot South, 12281 – 40th STREET S.E.. Telephone: 403-203-0525.