Thomas Richard McLean

Thomas Richard McLean, 81, of Thomas Twp., our cherished husband, devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, beloved brother, uncle and friend, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 24, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family at his home. Tom was born on January 15, 1944, in Moline, Illinois, the son of the late Harry and Addie (Noah) McLean. He graduated from United Township High School in East Moline in 1962, embarking on a lifelong journey of hard work and passion.

On June 25, 1966, Tom married the love of his life, Carmen Ramirez. Together, they built a beautiful life, overflowing with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories over their remarkable 59 years together. Their union was a testament to the beauty of partnership, and their family flourished under their guidance.

Tom's career as a mechanic began when he joined the Rock Island Railroad as an apprentice, where he dedicated 10 years before moving on to John Deere as an industrial mechanic. He later found his home at General Motors - Metal Fab, where he retired as a respected machine repairman. Over the years, he was at the GM Skill Center where he served as a mentor to high school students.

A man of many passions, Tom was a devoted Chicago Bears fan, an avid NASCAR enthusiast, and a lover of all things automotive, particularly his beloved '53 Chevy Truck. He found joy in biking, playing golf, and attending car shows, often with family by his side. His adventurous spirit led him to proudly bike across Iowa and Illinois, a testament to his love for life and the great outdoors.

Tom was an active member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus, always seeking ways to contribute to his community and faith.

Tom leaves behind his loving wife, Carmen McLean; his children, Paul McLean (Susie Curtiss), Mark (Denise) McLean, Matt (Tonia) McLean and Carin (Chris) Owen; many beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins; his sister, Shirley (Harold) Bost of Green Rock, IL; and sister-in-law, Gloria McLean-Grypp. Along with his parents, Tom was preceded in death by his siblings, Darrel McLean and Belva McLean, and Frank Noah.

Tom's family will be present to receive visitors on Thursday, August 28, 2025 from 4:00 PM until his 6:00 PM Vigil at Skorupski Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1550 Midland Rd., between State & Gratiot. On Friday, August 29, 2025, visiting will continue at 10:00 AM until Tom's 11:00 AM Funeral Mass at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 1035 N. River Rd., Shields. Fr. Peter Gaspeny will preside. Committal service to be held in Silvis, Illinois at a later date.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to his grandsons, Sam and Alex, for their unwavering care during Tom's final months, as well as to Heart-to-Heart Hospice for their compassionate support.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Holy Spirit Catholic Church or the American Cancer Society. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family online at www.skorupskis.com.