BLANCA—Blanca resident Charles David McLean, 60, died December 23, 2012 at his home in Blanca under hospice care.
Charles was born June 30, 1952 in Elmhurst, Illinois the son to Norman Neil and June M. Nieman McLean.
Charles served in the United States Army as a Combat Engineer and received many decorations including the Silver Star, many Vietnam Service Medals, a Purple Heart, National Defense as well as many others.
A carpenter by trade, he created beautiful works of art from wood and also fulfilled the dream of building his own home. He enjoyed traveling and especially loved the ocean and walking on the beaches. He was an outdoorsman and collected rocks and coins. Charles also enjoyed marksmanship. Above all, he loved to help others and helped many people throughout the years.
He is survived by his children Jason McLean of DeFuniak Springs, Florida and Joy (Victor) Zarate of Guantanamo Bay, Cuba; his brothers Norman McLean, Jim McLean, and sister Norma Lucero; his good friend Maurice “Mo” of Costa Rica; as well as seven grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family and friends.
His parents, his brother Bruce Edward McLean and his sister Ruthie McIntyre preceded him in death.
Cremation was chosen and services will be held 10:00 a.m. at the Blanca Community Church on Saturday, January 12, 2013.