Don MacLean, a former Sudburian and well-known leader in the Canadian mining equipment business, has died. News of his death was posted to social media. Company president Stella Holloway of Sudbury wrote she was "deeply saddened" to share the information.
MacLean, a professional engineer, who was also a former Inco miner and shift boss in Sudbury, started his own business MacLean Engineering, which in 2023 celebrated its 50th year in business. The company is known as a leading Canadian mining equipment business especially for battery electric vehicles.
"It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our esteemed founder and chairman, Donald MacLean. A visionary leader and inspiration to us all, Don left an indelible mark not only on our company but also on the global mining fraternity," said a company statement posted to social media on Friday.
It was 10 years ago, in 2014, that MacLean was honoured at the inaugural 2014 International Mining Technology Hall of Fame awards for the introduction of innovative underground mining machinery such as automated rock bolters and block hole drillers.
The company tribute also noted that In 2023, MacLean was honored with the "Safety Leadership" award by the Canadian Mining, Metallurgy, and Petroleum association in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the mining community.
In 2016, MacLean was also named to the SAMSSA Hall of Fame (Sudbury Area Mining Supply and Service Association) in honour of his contributions to the industry in Sudbury.
SAMSSA inducted Don (Ducky) MacLean, president of MacLean Engineering as its honouree for 2016 at its annual general meeting this past December.
"Don led with grace and wisdom, guiding us to new heights. For the past five decades, his vision for safety and innovation has served as the bedrock of our company, and it will undoubtedly continue to do so in the years to come. His legacy will forever resonate within our organization," said the company tribute.
With news of the death posted on social media on Friday, scores of tributes have been posted by members of the international mining community.
Personal information with respect to MacLean’s obituary were not published as of press time on Friday. An official obituary hasn't been released as of yet, so the date of death was not available as of this publication.
The company statement said a Celebration of Life will be held at the Georgian Bay Hotel, 10 Vacation Drive, Collingwood, Ontario L9Y 5G4 on Thursday, January 18 at 1:30 p.m.
Len Gillis covers mining and health care for Sudbury.com.
