Richard Duncan McLean
Mar 27th 1931 — Feb 26th 2023 (91 years)
Biography
Passed peacefully on February 26, 2023, in his 91st year. Beloved husband of Agnes (nee Zehnder) of 63 years. Cherished dad to James (Dawn), Jeffrey and Linda (Adam) Wilkins. Proud grandfather to Richard, Mary and Diane. Caring uncle to Kevin, Derek and Michelle. Born to Scottish parents on March 27, 1931, in Hamilton and raised in Parkdale with his younger brother, Ronald James (predeceased 2010). Richard graduated Parkdale Collegiate Institute, University of Toronto (1955) and Osgoode Hall Law School. Called to the Ontario Bar and married Agnes in 1959. Richard joined the law firm where he articled as a student and later became partner with Joseph Thompson and Claire Tooze. In 1971, he was appointed Queen’s Counsel and enjoyed a great career as a civil litigator for over 50 years. In his later years, Richard took on a second small general law practice in east end Toronto. In 1984, Richard became an associate member of The Royal Canadian Military Institute in honour of his father’s service in WWI. Richard made lifelong friends during his legal education and throughout his career. He loved to socialize, share his stories and experiences with many. He was a kind, loyal gentleman with an easygoing nature and a quick sense of humour. Richard was always generous with his time, energy and knowledge. He read the newspaper daily, enjoyed reading history and biography books, loved relaxing with his family at the cottage and when alone, he liked to poke around at the local hardware store. Richard will be greatly missed by his loving family, many friends and former colleagues. Cremation has taken place. A celebration of his life will take place at a later date.
Notes of Condolences about Richard Duncan
VICTORIA THOMPSON
24 days ago
I first met Dick in 1975 when I began working at Thompson, Tooze. Dick took his vocation seriously and received well-earned accolades; he struck an elegant pose in the courtroom. Dick was intuitive, loyal and precise. But it was his humour, wit and playfulness that so many of us remember. As the Savarin Tavern was directly across from 347 Bay, the lawyers often gathered there on Friday afternoons; clients were always told "he was called to the bar". Once at St. Michael's Hospital, Dick visited me bearing as a gift a massive cigar. Very memorable was Dick's rendition of La Vie en Rose in French at the Brunswick. A book could be assembled of our memories--it would be very thick indeed. Even in later years I have been a client of Dick and Katie. Dick was someone I knew I could trust, and I do not trust easily. I will miss Dick but a part of him will always remain with me.
Colin Tobias
25 days ago
Dick, as I knew him was my friend and professional colleague. He and Katie were my "go to people" for any real estate or wills and estate matters. Dick was a class act. Brilliant and funny. He was loved by anyone who knew him. He always had a smile and time to sit and chat. He was my friend and I will miss him and his smile.
Katie Schwemlein
25 days ago
I work for Richard Duncan McLeanQC for almost 30 years . A wonderful man to work. A real gentleman will be missed Rest in peace
Derek and Lisa McLean
25 days ago
Uncle Dick was an incredible man. It is hard to picture him without a smile on his face. Like his brother, Ron, he found humour in so much of life and was always ready with a quiver full of lines ready for any conversation. I will forever remember the sound of his laugh.
James (Dawn) and Jeffrey McLean
a month ago
Dad, as the patriarch of our family, you were the light and fun of our lives.
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