John Andrew "Buddy" MacLean

With sorrowful hearts we announce the peaceful passing of John Andrew “Buddy” MacLean on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at the age of 81 (three days shy of his 82nd birthday). Born on December 24, 1942, Buddy was the son of the late John and Flora (MacKinnon) MacLean.

Buddy was a handy jack-of-all trades. He worked for many years at the Sydney Steel Plant until its closure. He then became an automotive mechanic, a job which he truly loved. He was a quiet man with a unique wit and personality. He enjoyed gardening and growing vegetables and making sure the birds had something to eat. He played the guitar and most admired Chet Aikins, in whose music he found great comfort. His favourite activity was going to suppers at the Iona Legion with all of his friends there, especially good friend, Anthony Bonaparte, and playing Chase the Ace.

Buddy is survived by his sister, Anne (John Hugh) MacNeil; nieces and nephews – Earl (Marie) Musgrave, Frankie (Marilyn) Musgrave, Lynn (Gerard) MacKenzie, Judy (Art) Vaters, Julie Musgrave (Jamie), Danny Musgrave, Lorne Musgrave, Ricky (Annette), and Flo (Beau) Chaisson. 

Along with his parents, Buddy was predeceased by his wife, Cassie (MacKenzie) MacLean; his sisters – Theresa (Danny) Musgrave, Katherine MacLean and Marilyn MacLean, as well as her niece, Tracey Musgrave.

The family would like to especially thank Earl and Marie Musgrave for their care and support, as well as Florence Ann Waldron for her steadfast care of Buddy.

Cremation has taken place under the care and direction of W.J. Dooley Funeral Home at 107 Pleasant St. in North Sydney. A brief visitation will be held at St. Columba Church in Iona on December 27, 2024, starting at 9:30 am, with a funeral mass commencing the same morning at 11 am. Burial will follow at Christmas Island Cemetery and a reception will follow the burial at Christmas Island Firehall. Online condolences can be left for the family by writing on the tribute wall of the obituary.

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