James O. McLean

James O. McLean, age 78, of Saline, passed away March 28, 2025. He was born February 25, 1947 in Northville, Michigan; son of Joseph Warren and Magdalene (Schell) McLean. Jim, as known to his family and friends, was united in marriage to Carole A. Chizmar on June 8, 1968; they spent over 56 years lovingly devoted to one another. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War.

Jim graduated from Northville High School, class of 1965. He received his Associate Degree in Engineering from Schoolcraft College. He began his career in the engineering field at Plymouth Stamping. In 1980, he set ambitious career goals and ultimately became President of Stamtec in Ohio. After 15 years, he returned to Michigan, where he worked as a project manager for several companies, including Comcorp Engineering and Bing Manufacturing. Jim retired three times before finally settling into retirement in 2015. Feeling the need to stay active, he took his dream retirement job as a ranger at Leslie Park Golf Course in Ann Arbor. Determined to live life to the fullest, he continued working at the golf course even while undergoing chemotherapy. Jim never gave up.

Jim had a passion for golf and played a fierce game of pickleball — a true force on both the course and the court. He was disciplined about his daily exercise and mindful of his diet, always focused on staying healthy. To celebrate their 70th birthdays, he and his wife hiked Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks in Utah, covering 12 miles a day and meeting their goals each day. Jim thrived on the challenge and adventure, finding joy in the breathtaking beauty of the National Parks.

That trip was his favorite vacation, but he also enjoyed traveling internationally, visiting China in the 1980s, the Czechoslovakian Republic, and Mexico. His greatest joy, however, came from his family. He loved watching his granddaughters grow into remarkable young women. Known for his quick wit and mastery of one-liner dad jokes, Jim’s humor was cherished by many. He had a warm personality, was a supportive husband, a dedicated father, and a proud “Papa” to his granddaughters.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Carole; his son, Joe (Leslie) McLean; his daughter-in-law, Rebecca McLean; his granddaughters, Claire McLean, Emma McLean, Rachel Ashley, and Tessa Ashley; and his siblings, Louis McLean, Vaunnie (Bill) Westfall, Elaine Hawkins, and Dave McLean. He is also loved and survived by the Chizmar family and many nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his son James R. “Jimmy” McLean and his parents.

Visitation will be held Friday, April 4, 2025 from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm with the memorial service beginning at 1:00 pm at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial contributions to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Donations Processing Center, PO Box 5041, Boone, Iowa 50950-0041.