GORDON ALDOUS MACLEAN

Gordon Aldous MacLean, 62. It is with sorrow that we announce the passing of Gordon MacLean of Duluth, on Aug. 2, 2012.

Gordon's life path took many trails of diversion, from his birth city of Montreal Quebec; to Winnipeg, Manitoba; onto St. Paul, and finally Duluth. On those trails, he pursued life with an active and creative mind. While the road was filled with bumps and turns, Gordon tried to pursue an honest path; "Virtue and Honor" being his Scottish clan motto.

He was an LPN nurse for some years early in his career. Beyond those years, he became an entrepreneur of sorts, quietly pursuing business paths that were secrets only he knew. Meanwhile he did his best to provide for those he loved and cared for. Sadly, choices he made took him on a road of controversy, confusion and through life's sometimes dark doors. Choices are always one's own and he knew the consequences were his alone.

As a father, Gordon was in uncharted water. Having lost his father at a young age, Gordon tried his best to raise three boys. As was common in his life, fatherhood had its challenges, but it also came with many rewards. Countless camping and fishing trips gave him the opportunity to pass on lessons of life and the wilderness to his sons. He was an honorable man and leaves behind three honorable men in his place.

Happily, for his family, four years ago Gordon made a positive choice. Sadly, what followed was a decline in health and the final situation of the suffering that had to end. Gordon passed quietly with his friend, Deb Nordman by his side. Members of his family were in the wings at Solvay Hospice, Duluth.

He will be remembered by all who loved him as a smart and sharp man, who tried his best and who knew some of his chosen paths caused turmoil. In the end, his heart was strong and full of love for those closest to him.

Gordon is survived by his brother Douglas MacLean (Mary Beth Laviolette) of Canmore, Alberta; Sandi MacLean of Vernon, British Colombia; his sons Dylan (Melissa MacLean), Kyle (Mary Bue) and Ian MacLean (Shelby Matula) of Minnesota and their mother Lorene MacLean. Gordon had wonderful nieces, nephews, grandchildren (Riley, Tessa, Caiden and Maggie MacLean) and his favorite granddaughter Aurora (Ian and Jillian Forte).

Our sincere thanks as family to those who assisted and cared for him in the last days (neighbors, Dr. Dan, Kathy, and friend Lisa), and to the Solvay Hospice for their caring and medical assistance. Family has conducted private memorial, and friends will be contacted personally for a celebration of Gordon's life. In memoriam flowers or donations can be made to Solvay Hospice House, Duluth.

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