MacLean, Howard “Howie” Douglas – age 79, of Tatamagouche, NS, passed away on August 18, 2026, in Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro. Howie was born in Truro to Douglas Harold Richard MacLean and Ethel Marion McCabe.
He will be dearly missed by his daughter, Kelly; son-in-law, Jody; and grandchildren, Emma (Mitchell) and Jake. Without the love and support of his daughter and her family, his time with us would not have lasted nearly as long. Howie is also survived by his brother, Richard (Leona) MacLean; and nephew, Derrick (Tracy) MacLean, who were a constant presence throughout his life. He also leaves behind his daughter, Krista Benoit and grandchildren, Tyler and Sydney; and half-sister, Heather (Dennis) Crate.
He was predeceased by his infant sister, Sonia MacLean; and his half-brother, Thomas MacLean.
Howie’s dog, Austin was his constant companion, and her passing in 2020 left a void that never truly healed.
Howie was a Red Seal certified electrician who went on to build and run his own business — the first of several ventures he’d launch over the years, driven by an entrepreneurial spirit and a creative mind that was always looking for the next opportunity. He brought that same energy into everything he built. But more than his work, he’ll be remembered for his generosity — he gave freely of his time, his skills, and himself, often putting others’ needs ahead of his own.
Howie played fastball his entire life and was known and feared on the pitcher’s mound. He was a member of Truro Keith’s, a team named to the Honour Roll for their spectacular showing in 1969, when they captured the provincial title. After playing he turned to his true love, coaching youth in his community. Howie stayed close with many of his teammates and athletes over the years, always happy to reminisce about their fastpitch days together.
Howie has been promoted to greatness and is now called up to pitch where the games never end. Ya done good, kid!
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the amazing nurses in Palliative Care at Colchester East Hants Health Centre for the compassionate care they provided Howie and the loving support to his family in the final days.
Howie will be laid to rest in Terrace Hill Cemetery, Kaulback Street, Truro. A private interment will be held at a later date.
Donations in his memory may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia.
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