It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of IAN MCLELLAN at home, with his loving family by his side. Ian is survived by his devoted wife, Linda; his sons: David (Dominique), Kevin (Jo); step-son: Ryan Aebig (Adrianna); grandchildren: Charlie, Abby, Ainsley, Ellis and George; sisters: Gail MacKeigan, Marlene Estabrooks (Colin); son-in-law: Patrick Casey; Ian's nephew, nieces and his extended family. Predeceased by his parents: Robeta and Charles MacLellan; brother: Ronald MacLellan; step-daughter: Angela Christie Aebig and brother-in-law: Archie MacKeigan.
Ian was a proud Cape Bretoner who joined the RCAF in 1963. He graduated from Nova Scotia Technical College, (now called TUNS) in 1966 with an Engineering degree. His military postings included: NDHQ/CFB Uplands, Ottawa; AETE - CFB Cold Lake (3 tours); USNTPS - Patuxent River, Maryland; CFB Shearwater; NASA AMES Research Centre - Mountain View, California; Commanding Officer - ASDU - CFB Greenwood; EH 101 Helicopter Procurement - Ottawa. Ian left DND in 1991 and joined Transport Canada on the ATC Project Update then onto Aircraft Certification - Airworthiness Division. He retired in 2006 having served the Government of Canada with unassuming dedication, integrity and honour for 43 years. No mere recitation of biographical details can do justice to this fine man.
Ian distinguished himself by befriending the most soft-spoken person in group settings. People where drawn to his innate, gentle nature and trustworthiness. He was an intellectual, well-read and a source of endless support, advice and comfort to many throughout his life. His Gaelic heritage resonated in goodwill towards others, strong family values plus leading by example while treating everyone equally and with consideration and respect. He often said: "the measure of a man is not found in wealth or material possessions but is found in how one treats others".
Ian loved mathematics and never met a household motor he couldn't repair. His experience/knowledge in the field of aviation was admirable and his ability to calm us nervous flyers by stating the airline industry was so highly regulated that we need not worry. He loved story-telling, light-hearted jokes and holds a special place in the hearts of many by excelling in his roles as a cherished husband, father, step-dad, brother, uncle, cousin, grandfather, colleague, neighbour and friend. He was very proud of his family and with his quiet, reassuring presence offered wise counsel and unwavering guidance. Following the sudden passing his step-daughter, Angela Aebig in 2004; Ian spent many hours transforming our yard into a beautiful, lush, green tapestry with a tree dedicated to her memory as a focal point.
We focus on the unconditional love, wisdom and affection Ian left us with. This past year, he showed unshakeable resilience with every challenge he faced by displaying strength, grace and courage. He was finally released from a fate he did not deserve but had faced head on. Now we turn to remembering him; to move past the diminishment that his illness inflicted and cherish what he gave us for so long. We loved Ian dearly and miss him already but he now rests in the gentle peace he is so deserving of.
We offer sincere appreciation to all the staff at Family First Health Centre, Ottawa General Hospital, Bayshore Home Care Solutions, Orleans Palliative Care, Home and Community Care Support Services/Champlain plus Veterans Affairs. We wrap our gratitude-filled hearts around our immediate families and dearest friends for their immense love, thoughtfulness and compassion. Sincere thanks to David, Kevin, Gail, Patrick/Mercedes Casey, Dr. Lori Turnbull, Kate/Kelly Cannon, Nicole Bussiere, Liz Yong, Alan Thompson/Tim Horton's coffee group and to our very caring neighbours for your love, kindness and assistance. We are deeply touched by the many emails, cards, calls, flowers, meals, visits, prayers and gifts.
A "Gathering of Family and Friends" to honour Ian will be held at Beechwood in Ottawa in the Spring/2025. If you wish, memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice or to the Canadian Cancer Society.