Willa McLean
September 8, 1932 – September 4, 2025

In remembrance, we announce the passing of Willa Jean McLean (nee Somerville), who left this world on September 4, 2025, just a few days before her 93rd birthday.

Born in Stayner, Ontario, in 1932, to Margaret and Delmas Somerville, Willa grew up as the eldest of her siblings, Wayne (predeceased), Bob, and Olive. At just 18 years old, she began her teaching career in a one-room schoolhouse, where her students cherished her warmth and guidance. Teaching remained a lifelong passion, and she carried that spirit of curiosity and dedication throughout her life.

Willa’s journey took her to many places—Toronto, Cleveland, Philadelphia, and Edmonton, among them—where she embraced new experiences and made friends with ease. She had a curious and agile mind, always eager to engage with the world around her, and she followed global events with keen interest, often delighting in the unfolding drama of history.

She shared her life with her beloved husband, Bob McLean, whose career as a talk-show host she supported wholeheartedly and with devotion. She even became a producer for his television and radio shows, at a time when female producers were rare. Willa loved and thrived in being Bob’s partner in life and work. They had two daughters, Abbie Buktaw (predeceased) and Jennifer McLean.

Later in life she enjoyed tutoring neighbouring children and watching the Blue Jays and keeping up with the news. She and Bob spent several years as hosts for bus trips and tours, which allowed her to continue to research and share her knowledge. She read voraciously and enjoyed writing book reviews for periodicals. Willa will be remembered for her sharp mind and her ability to make those around her be seen. If you met her, you would have been interviewed so she could get all the beautiful details of you.

She is survived by her daughter Jennifer McLean, her son-in-law Victor Buktaw, her siblings Bob Somerville and Olive Davidson, and many extended family members and friends whose lives were touched by her presence.

The family is so grateful for the incredible care Willa received both at Greenway Retirement Village in Brampton and at the Village of University Gates in Waterloo.

A celebration of Willa’s life will be planned at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Westmount Memorial Celebration Centre.

June 24, 1996 – Kitchener Waterloo Record