Obituary – Richard’s Story

Vale Richard McLean Photo TWH

Friends and family attended a large gathering at Bourke’s Holy Innocents Anglican Church last Thursday to farewell popular sportsman and long-term Bourke resident Richard McLean.

Richard came to Bourke as a Telstra technician in 1990 and made Bourke his home until his recent passing after a long battle with prostate cancer.

Following is an abridged version of the eulogy presented at the service by family friend Sharon Knight – this is Richard’s story.

Richard Leslie McLean was born at Parkes, NSW on 21st July 1955, to his parents, Bill and Silvie McLean. Shortly after Bill & Silvie McLean with Richard and his older sister Susan, moved to Manilla, NSW where Bill was appointed as an Ambulance Officer.

Richard completed his primary school education at Manilla Central School. School provided sporting opportunities such as football, cricket, swimming, tennis, bike riding, golf, lawn bowls, and more. It was probably here that Richard developed his love of sports.

The Bowling Club was just three houses up the road, and Richard was up early most days helping the greenkeeper. It was during this time he discovered his bowling ability. An interest in golf and a little pocket money provided the incentive to be the sand green preparer for the golf club as well.

Read more in the printed edition of the Western Herald.