Bret McLean 1958-2025

Bret was born Sept. 27, 1958, in Niles, to Madeline and Horace “Mac” McLean.

Bret graduated from Ohio State University with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering in 1980. He went on to Youngstown State University to get his master’s degree in business.

He was an avid tennis lover and OSU Buckeyes football fan.

He had many jobs as an engineer and project manager. He just retired from the Space Force at Patrick Air Force Base.

His kind and gentle spirit will live on in all who knew him.

Bret married his love of 22 years, Rosemary Opalka, in 2003. He has two wonderful stepchildren, Dustin (Maddy) Opalka of Deerfield Beach, Florida, and Carly Copelli (Nick), and granddaughter, Kyla, of Boca Raton, Florida; four siblings, Laurie, Brad, Rory and Brian, and their spouses; many nieces and nephews; close friends; and two loving dogs, Jaxson and Leah.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

His wishes were to be cremated with no service at this time.

A celebration of his incredible life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, his wishes were to have everyone donate to their local animal shelters in his name.

(special notice)