November 8, 1928 - September 3, 2018
It is with love and wonderful memories that we announce the passing of our dear Mom and Grandma, Ferne McLean. She is survived by her children Sue (Jason) of Cowichan Station, BC and Doug Jr. (Patty) of Mississauga, ON; beloved grandchildren Kirk, Griffin, Bailey and Lizzie; and was predeceased by Doug, her husband and best friend of 64 years; sisters Joyce and June, and parents Pearl and Leslie Clarke.
Ferne was born on the Clarke family farm in Colleston, Saskatchewan and it was here, in the midst of a loving family and wonderful community, that she developed her generous spirit and sense of kindness to others. When she was 13 her family left the farm and moved to Victoria, BC. This was a big change for a young girl but Ferne's resilient nature led her to make lifelong friends and enjoy the new direction life had gone in. She graduated from Mount View High School in 1947 and went on to study math at Victoria College while also working at Spencer's. Around this time, on a blind date, the twinkle in her eye caught the attention of a handsome young man named Doug McLean. They fell in love, married in 1950 and began a beautiful life together. Ferne was a pillar of strength and support for Doug as his 47 year career with Crane moved them to many points in BC and Ontario. No matter where they lived Ferne always made a beautiful home for Doug and their children, where family and friends alike were welcomed with immense warmth and kindness. Whether she was gathering everyone for a BBQ on the patio or dinner in the dining room the food was always delicious and the table a beautiful sight. Ferne's sense of community, fostered in her childhood, led her to volunteer with many charitable organizations and endeavors throughout her lifetime...assisting with communion at Glen Cairn United, supervising school field trips, driving a neighbor to hospital appointments...she was happy tending to the needs of others before herself. Ferne's life with Doug was full of smiles and laughter, precious friendships and a very deep love for each other, their children and their four grandchildren.
Ferne moved to the Gatehouse in Cobble Hill, BC in 2016, a year after Doug's passing. It is with great appreciation that we give thanks to Rae for providing a home with loving care and comfort for our mom in her final years. A horse living on the property adjoining Gatehouse would often feed at the fence outside the window. It was a joyful sight to Mom, who always maintained a deep fondness and connection to her childhood spent with horses on the farm in Colleston.
A Celebration of Ferne's Life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday October 20th, 2018 at Sylvan United Church, 985 Shawnigan-Mill Bay Rd., Mill Bay, BC. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the MS Society of Canada or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.
Condolences may be offered online at www.sandsduncan.ca.
ands Funeral Chapel Cremation and Reception Centre
Service Details
1:00 PM