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Obituary of Frederick Stanley McLean
In Loving Memory Frederick S. McLean
January 14th, 1942 - October 1st, 2025
Frederick “Fred” McLean, 83, of Rochester, passed away peacefully on October 1st, 2025.
Fred was a man of integrity, strength, and quiet devotion. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend- his life was marked by his unwavering commitment to do what was right, his steady presence as a protector, and the countless lessons he imparted to those who loved him.
Fred was the devoted husband of 63 years To Joan (“Beth” aka “hun”), his partner and best friend. Their marriage was a model of resilience and love, built on loyalty, laughter, and shared values. Together they raised a family that was his pride and joy.
He was a loving father to Frederick (Janet), Karen (Steven), and Megan, and a cherished grandfather to Kathleen, Anthony, Nathan, Tyler, and Brooklyn. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, loved in-laws, and friends.
He treasured his family above all, and in their stories, humor, and traditions, his legacy will continue to live on.
Throughout his life, Fred was known for the life lessons he shared in one-liners, sometimes practical like “Never back up more than you have to”, sometimes witty, and often wrapped in humor- an inside joke that only he could deliver, like “Watch out for the grasshoppers”.
Fred embodied integrity. He was the kind of man who, upon finding a $20 bill, would make every effort to find its rightful owner. He could not tell a lie- not because he feared the consequences, but because that is who he was. He believed that character was not about recognition, but about what you do when no one is watching.
Family and friends will remember Fred for his kindness, his wisdom, and the small but meaningful rituals that defined him. His ability to turn a simple moment into a teaching one, his fondness for laughter, and his consistent reminder that doing the right thing was always worth it. These are the gifts he leaves behind.
Fred will be profoundly missed, but those who knew him will continue to hear his voice in their memories, urging them to “straighten up and fly right”, guiding them as he always did.
Fred worked construction jobs in his early years, as well as working as a meat cutter for Hegedorn’s, then a delivery driver for Kauffman’s Bakery. He managed a game arcade and worked as a security officer in later years- most recently with the Verizon group.
The family would like to thank the staff at Woodside Manor and Highland Hospital for their kind care and compassion.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association or to a charity of your choice, in honor of Fred’s compassionate spirit and his lifelong desire to help others.
Friends are invited to meet the family at the funeral home for calling hours on Sunday, October 12th from 2 – 4 PM with a memorial service immediately following at the Paul W. Harris Funeral Home (570 Kings Highway So.). Interment private.
