Obituary of John Balmanno Maclean

Maclean, John B. Pictou John Balmanno Maclean, 83, of Pictou, Nova Scotia passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on July 29, 2024. At the time of his passing he was in the garden listening to the birds singing and the wind in the poplar trees. John was born in New Glasgow, N.S. to the late John and Margaret (Balmanno) Maclean. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Marjorie; his daughter, Jill (Glen) Tampa, Florida; and son, Scott (Audra) Black River. He is also survived by five grandchildren, Zachery, Kyle, Cailee, Tanner, and Tyler; and one great grandchild, Audrey. Also survived by his brother, Russel (Jean) and sister, Sheila (Barry); sisters-in-law, Ailene, Beanie, (James), Shannon (George), Lee (Fausen), and a number of nieces, nephews, and cousins. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his in-laws, Morris and Pearl Freeman, and sister-in-law, Ann Luker. John attended school in New Glasgow and Pictou (Pictou Academy) before joining the Royal Canadian Navy in 1959. He served for eight years after which he joined Scott Maritimes Pulp and Paper Company where he worked until retirement. An avid outdoorsman from a young age, he enjoyed hunting and fishing and, in particular, spending time at the camp in Cape Breton with his close buddies for over 30 years. He loved the water and participated for many years in the Pictou Lobster Carnival boat races, even building his own boat, The Cat's Meow. He was also involved in the Pictou County ATV Club and the Snowmobile Club. He was a member of the Caledonia Lodge, Pictou Chapter, and received the prestigious 50-year jewel. He was a former member of the Royal Canadian Legion. Family was of paramount importance to John and he was incredibly interested and proud of the accomplishments and successes of his children and grandchildren. It brought him great joy attending the activities of all his grandchildren. John took great pride in not only attending the high school graduation of all five of his grandchildren but seeing them become successful young adults he could be proud of in their chosen careers. He and Marjorie also enjoyed time in Florida each year. The family would like to extend a very special thanks to the staff of Ivey Terrace for their excellent care of John over the past four years, and the compassion and kindness shown to the family at this difficult time. The staff became a second family to him. Thanks are also extended to family and friends who visited on a regular basis, and to the friends and neighbours who have been so kind and helpful. There will be no visitation or service. A family burial will take place. A celebration of life will be held 2PM September 14, 2024 at the Royal Canadian Legion, Pictou. Though John has left our sight, his warmth, laughter, and unwavering love will forever echo in our hearts. His legacy of kindness and strength will guide us always. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you honor John by sharing a smile, a kind word, or a helping hand, just as he did throughout his life. If desired, donations may be made to Parkinson Society of Nova Scotia, Ducks Unlimited, or a charity of your choice.