Donald “Doc” McLean

A well known dentist and long-time resident of Wasilla, Alaska, passed away unexpectedly on February 9, 2020 at the age of 67 in Palmer, Alaska.

Don was born in Hopewell, Virginia on March 9, 1952, son of the late Charles and Katherine McLean. He is survived by his wife, Lynne McLean; his children, Kimberly Sole (James), Nicole McLean and Christopher McLean; his grandchildren, Madison Sole, Carter Sole and Hudson Njuguna; his sisters Beth Anne Dixon (Marvin) and Patricia McLean and numerous uncles, aunts, nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his brother, Lanny McLean; his grandfather, Clarence E. “Kakie” Johnson and his grandmother, Mary Lee Bishop Johnson.

He graduated from Virginia Tech in 1974 with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and was a member of the Theta Delta Chi fraternity. On May 15, 1975, he married Lynne, his college sweetheart. He graduated in 1978 from The Medical College of Virginia with a degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery. Don was a Captain in the United States Air Force where he served as a dentist from 1978-1982. He established his dental office in Wasilla in 1982 and practiced until the time he passed.

Later, he graduated from Kaplan University, Concord Law School in 2008 with a degree in Heath Law. Don formally served on the Board of Governors of the Alaska Bar Association.

Don was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He greatly enjoyed practicing dentistry in the Mat-Su Valley and was beloved by his patients. He was known locally as an avid cattle farmer, animal lover, gardener, and sports fan of the Hokies, Ducks and Seahawks. Don enjoyed playing his guitars and watching western movies. He had a passion for discussing science, history and current events and was proud of his Lumbee Tribe heritage. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, patients, community and all that knew him.

A funeral service will be held in the summer of 2020.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association.