Obituary of Harvey McLean

Harvey L. McLean, a retired Patrolman for the Boston Police Department and Special Deputy U.S. Marshall passed away on Tuesday morning, March 20, 2012. Harvey was born in Boston, the son of Charles and Grace White. He grew up in Jamaica Plain and West Roxbury. During World War II, Harvey was too young to enlist in the military, so at the age of 16 signed up to be a Merchant Marine serving on cargo ships supplying the War effort. In 1946, he turned 18 and enlisted in the US Army Air Corp. Harvey saw more of the world by the age of 19, than most see in a lifetime. He became a member of the Boston Police Department in 1954 and over his career was assigned to Districts 1, 4, and 14. In his close to 40 years with the Boston Police Department, he received several commendations for meritorious conduct. He was a member of the Boston Police Relief Association and the Boston Police Patrolman’s Association, where he served as a Representative. He retired in 1993 only to go back to work as a Special Deputy US Marshall at the Moakley Courthouse in Boston for another 6 years. Harvey and his family moved to Burlington in 1972. He enjoyed Ballroom dancing with his wife. He also traveled extensively all over Europe, Nova Scotia, Bermuda, Hawaii, and California. He enjoyed his home and working around his yard. He would regularly walk around the Burlington Mall. He was proud to give his sons the opportunities that he did not have as a youth. He was an excellent role model to his sons stressing the importance of giving oneself to your community, country, career, and family. He took great pride in his sons’ achievements in athletics, community activities, and in their professions. Harvey was the beloved husband of 47 years of Katherine V. (Doherty) McLean. He was the proud father of Charles J. McLean of Burlington and SGT David H. McLean, Burlington Police of Dracut. He was the brother-in-law of Elaine and John Bradley of Foxboro, formerly of Winchester. He was also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Funeral services will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn St., BURLINGTON (exit 34 off Rt. 128, Woburn side) on Saturday, March 24 at 11 a.m. Visiting hours Friday from 4-8 p.m. Interment in Chestnut Hill Cemetery, Burlington. Memorials in Harvey’s name may be made to a charity of one’ own choice.