Gary Earl MacLean, 75, of Shelby, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 24, 2025. He was born October 24, 1949, in Fremont, Michigan, to Harry and Edith (McNutt) MacLean.

Gary was a gentle soul—kind, intelligent, funny, and deeply loving—but never a pushover. Let’s just say, you better pass the potatoes (an inside family joke that still brings a smile). He had a strong faith and, at one time, even considered becoming a pastor. While that path didn’t come to be, he spent his time sharing his beliefs online, writing passionately about the power of his Lord and Savior. He is now at peace—free of pain and resting in grace.

Throughout his life, Gary achieved many things, but his greatest passion was writing. When he was at the keyboard, it sounded like a machine gun going off—rap-a-tap-tap. He published three books: one for industry (used by others as a training tool), one on love, and one reflecting on his experiences growing up.

Gary and his wife, Lisa, shared a blended family of five children. They always said, “your kids are my kids.” Together, they built a business (Q21), ran a bed and breakfast, and nurtured generations of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Gary had a fondness for chocolate chip cookies, White Castles, goulash, and beef stroganoff. His favorite tool? The phone.

Together, Gary and Lisa built a life that was full—full of laughter, love, faith, and family. And in that fullness, they found completeness.

Gary is survived by: his loving wife, of 31 years, Lisa; children, Arlo (Noel Lisa) Haarsma, Sarah MacLean, Garrison MacLean, Michelle Neino, Renee Davis; brother, Chansford & Rose (Smith) MacLean; sister, Glenda Brooks; grandchildren, Jodi, Dane Jr, Michael, Marie, Riley, Karter, Aliah, Kendrick, Zechariah, Solomon, and Charlie; great-grandchildren, Emma, Ethan, Ella, Evalynn, Matthew, Danny, Eliana, Milah, Molly, Dane III, Mae and Olivia; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

Gary was preceded in death by: his parents, Harry and Edith (McNutt) MacLean; brothers and sisters, Laury MacLean, Pat Dake, Jackie LaFleur, Freda Ellsworth, Harry McLean, Danny MacLean, and Nancy Cavanaugh.

A celebration of Gary's life will be held from 5 pm until 7 pm, Friday, August 8, 2025 at Harris Funeral Home, 267 North Michigan Avenue, Shelby, Michigan, 49455.

Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is in charge of arrangements.

www.harrisfhome.com