Obituary of Iain (John) Maclean

Iain (John) A. Maclean, 98, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2023, at Ellis Hospital. Born in Glasgow, Scotland, he was the son of the late Hector and Margaret (Kerr) Maclean. Iain was educated in Scotland and went on to serve in the British Army (The Black Watch: Royal Highland Regiment), during World War II from 1944-1946. Following his service, Iain left Scotland and migrated to Toronto, Canada, in search of a better life. He eventually decided to come to the United States in 1952 and live with his Aunt and Uncle, James and Mary MacEwan, in Schenectady. While there, he met and married his beloved wife of 64 years, Bonnalyne “Bonnie” (Sturgis) Maclean, on December 26, 1959. He was a lifelong master carpenter and retired from the Local 370 Union after many dedicated years. Iain was proud of his Scottish heritage and was a member of the Schenectady Pipe Band for over 50 years, making him the longest serving member. He is fondly remembered as the band Quartermaster and Drum Major Emeritus: a legend in the Scottish circles of the Northeast.  His connection to Highland history and culture continued through his membership to the Clan MacRae Society of North America. He was an avid gardener, often seen tending to his brilliantly blue hydrangea blooms. Above all, Iain cherished the time he was able to spend with his family, especially his grandchildren. He will be remembered for his vast repertoire of stories, always told with a glint in his eye. It is his jovial spirit and larger-than-life personality that will be missed by all who knew him.

Left to cherish Iain’s memory is his wife, Bonnie Maclean, his daughters Alison Molumby (Patrick) and Moira Poniatowski (James). He was the treasured “Papa” to Devon, Molly, Grace, and Maeve Poniatowski, and Niamh and Ciara Molumby. He is also remembered by many nieces, nephews and extended family members in Scotland. 

In addition to his parents, Iain was predeceased by his Maclean siblings: William, Dougald, Alistair, Hector and Elma.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, February 23, 2023, from 4-6pm at the Glenville Funeral Home, 9 Glenridge Road, Glenville.

The family wishes to thank Jill Dunster-Wesley, Scotia EMS and the nurses of Ellis Hospital ICU for their care and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Iain’s name may be made to the Schenectady Pipe Band, P.O. Box 37192 Albany, NY 12212. Online condolences www.glenvillefuneralhome.com