Thomas Ray Mclean

Thomas Ray McLean of Grants Pass, died Sunday, June 3rd, one day after his 89th birthday at Asante Three River Medical Center after a long and gradual decline in health.

Tom was born June 2, 1929 in Lubbock TX to Ross and Lucille McLean. He had four sisters, Doris, Sara, Pat, Elegrace and one brother, Don. Tom married his bride of 65 years, Imeldine (Mel) McLean in 1948. Together they raised seven children. Tom was preceded in death by Imeldine and three of their children, Greg, Daniel and their youngest daughter, Lorraine.

Tom leaves behind four children, Damian, Margaret Howell (Pegi), John and Jim, twelve grandchildren, twenty-nine great grandchildren, and close companion of several years, Jackie Grinolds.

Tom moved his family from Oakland CA to Grants Pass in 1964. In 1970, he founded Rogue Valley Heating and Air Conditioning, which he owned and operated until 1998. He was first to introduced Southern Oregon to the Heat Pump.

Tom contributed to the community for many years by supporting local clubs and organizations such as The Grants Pass Rotary Club, The Grants Pass Elks Lodge and The Knights of Columbus. He helped in the early development of the Grants Pass All Sports Park.

After retiring in 1998, Tom enjoyed volunteering his time with Lovejoy Hospice, St Vincent DePaul Soup Kitchen and The Gospel Rescue Mission.

Over the years Tom attended church at St Anne’s, River Valley Community Church and Jerome Prairie Bible Church.

He enjoyed family gatherings, chocolate covered cherries, fishing and golf. He was a member at Grants Pass Golf Club for many years.

Tom and Mel had the opportunity to travel to far away countries and visited many cities in the US.

He was a proud supporter of all branches of the military and proud of his country.
Tom approached everything in life with an all or nothing attitude. He loved big and cared deeply.

We will never forget his captivating smile and hearty laugh that was contagious to all.

We will celebrate his life Saturday, June 16th at 11:00am at Jerome Prairie Bible Church.
Reception lunch to follow at the Church Hall.