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The body of former Houghton County Sheriff Brian McLean returned to the Copper Country Thursday afternoon to a hero’s reception. McLean was airlifted Saturday night to UP Health Systems – Marquette before passing away late Monday. He was the longest-serving sheriff in the state, first elected in 1996, and his larger-than-life persona earned him much respect among law enforcement throughout the UP.
Michigan State Police agreed to cover for Houghton County Sheriff’s Department personnel as they provided an escort for the gray hearse carrying McLean to the Memorial Chapel Funeral Home in Hancock. His coworkers were part of the motorcade for the entire 100-mile trip. Various law enforcement agencies, fire departments, and ambulance services joined in along the way. Near the county line, area departments met the hearse.
The route was planned to go through the heart of Houghton and Hancock allowing residents to pay respects as they lined the streets. In front were police, followed by the hearse, fire departments ranging from Ahmeek to Baraga, and EMTs.
Houghton County is flying the American flag at half staff above the courthouse, and staff were given leave Thursday to greet the procession. McLean’s funeral is Saturday at the Rozsa Center, with visitation starting at 10:00 AM. In the hour leading up to the ceremonies, the Portage Lake Lift Bridge will not be raising for nautical traffic. Boats and other vessels should plan accordingly.
