Richard Edward MacLean, a humanitarian, philanthropist, leader, father, grandfather and all-around lover of life, died at age 66 in his home in Brookfield, Conn., surrounded by family, on Aug. 25. Although cancer claimed his life, it did not define him.
Richard was the second of four children born to parents Edward MacLean and Genevieve Elderkin in Valley Stream. He graduated from Valley Stream South High School in 1971. There, he excelled in wrestling and jamming out to his favorite band, The Grateful Dead. He went on to attend Columbia University, wrestling on a collegiate level and earning a bachelor of arts in religion in 1976. In 1977 he enrolled in New York Law School and earned his juris doctorate in 1980.
He was known to be fun, interesting, charismatic and smart, according to loved ones. He was often the life of the party with a microphone in hand singing his heart out, or sitting in a corner spot having a heartfelt chat. Known by his friends for his sincere compassion, Richard was as famous for getting his friends out of trouble as he was for getting himself into it. He had a smile that could light a room, a selfless and generous nature and was funny as hell.
Above all else, Richard held his children dearest, including his three children, three grandchildren and his dog, Teddy. In the spirit of his favorite family vacations, he purchased “Chez Dick,” his own permanent lake residence and sanctuary on Lake Lillinonah. He was an avid water-skier and boater, enjoyed racquetball, and snow skiing and had a legendary golf swing. He traveled the world, most recently taking trips to Africa, Ireland and France. Richard was considered a renaissance man of many hobbies, talents and passions. Among his many interests was a love for holiday decorating, including construction of a Christmas village.
Richard had a long and successful career as a lawyer, propelled by his work ethic and hustle. His career began in private practice, and after years of trials and working in courtrooms, he headed into corporate law with the Sobe Beverage Company. He was an early employee of the global pet food company, Blue Buffalo, having many different roles at the company including v.p. of operations and general counsel.
-Compiled by Peter Belfiore