McLelland, Ronald D.
The death of Ronald D. McLelland occurred at Saskatoon City Hospital on Saturday, February 1, 2014. He was born on NE quarter of 12-26-5 W3 near Loreburn on March 27, 1926 to David and Hanna McLelland. Ron loved and worked at farming his entire life. After completing the 2012 harvest, he took ill.
His sense of community was strong and he served on many boards and organizations. To name a few, Ron served on the Loreburn Town Council, School Board, Curling Club, Hockey League, Loreburn/Hawarden Pastoral charge, Board of Stewards of the United Church of Canada, the Outlook Hospital Board, Wheat Pool, and the Saskatchewan River Development.
Ron was an avid sportsman. In his youth, he was a King Scout, and played hockey with the Loreburn Tigers and baseball with local teams. He later played baseball with the Cranes, which were inducted into the Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame in 2003. Ron also played hockey in Sudbury, and three seasons with the Lucknow Sepoys of the Ontario WOHA. It was in Lucknow where he met Agnes Conley. They were married in March 1951 during a break between his playoff series.
Ron was an active member of Lions International throughout his life. He was a founding member and Charter President of the Loreburn Lions Club. He received many certificates of appreciation and numerous awards for his service. Highlights included serving as District Governor, Senior Counsellor, member of the Saskatchewan Eye Bank Board, and was honoured by receiving his life membership.
Ron was active in the Masonic Fraternity for almost 60 years. He held the position of Master of Elbow View and Hawarden Lodges, and District Deputy Grand Master.
Politics was in his blood. He was an ardent Diefenbaker follower. Ron was elected to the 27th Parliament representing the constituency of Rosetown-Biggar from 1965 to 1968. He received the Centennial Medal, and the 125th Anniversary medal in recognition of significant service and contribution to the community and Canada. Ron continued to be involved in both Federal and Provincial politics until he became ill.
Ron was predeceased by his parents David and Hanna McLelland, sisters Marjorie, Eleanor and cousin Bertha. Survived by his wife Agnes; son Cameron (Eileen), daughter Marlene, grandchildren Chrysten, Kristyanne (Chun), and sister Marion.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to the Lions Eye Bank of Saskatchewan c/o Saskatoon City Hospital.
The family would like to thank the Doctors and Nurses of RUH, SPH, and City Emergency Departments, and the inpatient areas for their care during Ron’s illness. Thank you as well to the staff at the Better Living Personal Care Home for kindness and care of Ron over the last few years.
Funeral service was held at 2 p.m. on Friday, February 7, 2014 at the Loreburn United Church. Arrangements are entrusted to the Outlook Funeral Chapel. A private family interment will take place at a later date.