Sheriff Brian J. '“Slim” McLean

Sheriff 1996-2021

Brian J. “Slim” McLean, 63, well-known resident of Houghton and longtime Sheriff of Houghton County, passed away Tuesday, July 20, 2021, at UP Health System- Marquette with his family by his side.
He was born on January 23, 1958, in Hancock, a son of the late John and Catherine (McCarthy) McLean. Brian was raised in Houghton and was a graduate of the Houghton High School with the class of 1976. Slim began working at a young age, starting with Weber’s Sporting goods, the Pic and Lode Theaters and the Tee Pee Restaurant. After High School, he worked for the City of Houghton Public Works Department until beginning a career in Law enforcement. In 1978, he began working for the City of Houghton Police Department. In 1982, he became a deputy for the Houghton County Sheriff’s Department.
In 1996, Mr. Brian McLean became the Sheriff for Houghton County and to this date was the longest-running Sheriff of Houghton County With 26 years served to Houghton County.
On August 29, 1981, Brian was united in marriage to the former Kelly Smith. The couple resided in Chassell and Houghton while raising their family.
Mr. McLean was a member of Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church of Houghton. Mr. McLean was very active in the community over the years serving on many committees and boards. He was also active with the Michigan High School Athletic Association being a referee for over 30 years. Slim had many hobbies and interests such as coaching women’s hockey with the Houghton Angels in the early 70’s and his daughter with the K-Wings in the 00’s. He played Monday and Thursday Hockey 60 and over rentals along with playing in the Calumet Hockey League, he was an avid golfer playing the Portage Lake Golf League. Slim enjoyed sharing with family and friends his love for cooking and baking. His loaves of bread brought comfort to people during their times of joy and sorrow. He was very active with the Knights of the Round Table. His warm smile and belly laugh would welcome all.
Brian was always very proud and happy with all of the relationships he gained while being the Sheriff of Houghton County. The Highlight of Sheriff Brian McLean’s career was serving in 2009 as President of the Michigan Sheriff’s Association. He was involved with all aspects with the Michigan Sheriff’s Association during his 26 years as Sheriff.