The Rev. Walter Inglis McLean, D.D.

The Rev. Walter Inglis McLean was born at Blyth, Ontario, on January 5th, 1877, where his father, Dr. Archibald McLean, was minister for forty years. His grandfather was the Rev. Walter Inglis, of Ayr, Ontario, who was a fellow-student of the famous Dr. David Livingstone, and later with Drs. Livingstone and Moffatt, served in Africa for nine years. Dr. W. L. McLean's mother was born in Africa.

Dr. McLean gained his M.A. at Varsity, Toronto, and his testamur in Theology at Knox College. As a student, he won the Lt. Governor's Prize in Greek. His wife, Amy C. Elder, was from Blyth. His early career was spent in teaching Classics in Vanleek High School, Ontario, and for a time he taught the same subjects in Regiopolis college, Kingston. Dr. McLean's first pastorates were Guthrie, etc. (3 years): Hanover (8 years); Thamesville (8 years). He was called to Chalmers', Hamilton, in 1927, and there rendered conspicuous service until his retirement. Later, Hamilton Presbytery engaged him for part-time duties as Hospital Chaplain.

Throughout his whole career, Dr. McLean was noted for his humility, courtesy, and faithfulness in the cause of Christ. His worthwhileness as a Minister of Christ was recognized not only by the congregations he served but also by his Alma Mater which conferred upon him the honour of Divinitatis Doctor. At his funeral in Chalmers' Church on February 24th, 1958, a large and representative congregation met showing the esteem in which Dr. McLean was held. The Rev. T. Melville Bailey, Moderator of the Presbytery, presided, and read appropriate Lessons; the Rev. Canon John Samuel, Rector of St. Stephens' took the Prayers; the Rev. Geo. A. Lowe, the minister of Chalmers gave the Address; and the Rev. C. L. Cowan gave the Eulogy. The Rev. J. Ewer Stewart, Dr. McLean's brother-in-law, and the Rev. W. K. Palmer assisted at the interment.

The Presbytery of Hamilton extends to Mrs. McLean and daughters, Mrs. W. E. McCutcheon (Mabel) and Miss Joy, and grandchildren, and all related by ties of blood and marriage its deepest sympathies and prays the presence and comfort of God to be with them until they meet an unbroken family, around the throne of GOD in heaven.

(This obituary notice prepared by the Presbytery of Hamilton is recorded with the minutes of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Canada.)