Community Mourns Sudden Loss of Local Engineer Bret McLean, 66

Deerfield Beach, Florida, USA - On June 2, 2025, Bret L. McLean passed away unexpectedly from a cardiac event at the age of 66. His sudden departure serves as a poignant reminder of the critical issue of heart disease, which remains the leading cause of death in the United States. Born in Niles on September 27, 1958, to Madeline and Horace “Mac” McLean, Bret enjoyed a successful career in civil engineering and project management, most recently at the Space Force’s Patrick Air Force Base before his retirement.

Bret celebrated life with a passion for tennis and was a devoted Ohio State University Buckeyes football fan. His legacy will be cherished by his beloved wife, Rosemary Opalka, whom he married in 2003, along with two stepchildren and a granddaughter. Anecdotes of his kindness and loyalty abound, from his siblings to his two dogs, Jaxson and Leah. He wished for cremation with no service, and in lieu of flowers, he requested donations to local animal shelters.

The Heart of the Matter

Heart disease is not just a personal tragedy for families like Bret’s; it strikes broadly across the community, impacting men, women, and people of various ethnic backgrounds. According to CDC, one individual succumbs to cardiovascular disease every 33 seconds, with over 702,000 lives taken in 2022 alone. It’s a shocking statistic that translates to one in every five deaths in the U.S. This underscores that heart disease is a rampant issue we must confront collectively.

As the American Heart Association reports, the landscape of heart health is complicated. Cardiovascular diseases cause more deaths than all types of cancer and accidental deaths combined. With rising rates of obesity—affecting over 72% of U.S. adults—and nearly half of adults dealing with high blood pressure, it’s crucial to recognize and address the root causes of this ongoing epidemic.

An Urgent Call to Action

Health risk factors contributing to heart disease continue to escalate. Nearly 47% of U.S. adults suffer from high blood pressure, while 57% face issues related to type 2 diabetes or prediabetes. These alarming figures indicate a pressing need for tailored interventions, especially considering the demographic disparities revealed in the statistics.

In addition, while smoking rates have declined, the need for awareness concerning diet and exercise remains paramount. The CDC warns that lifestyle choices play a significant role in heart health. Excess weight contributes to approximately 1,300 additional deaths each day—a stark reminder that changes in our habits could save lives.

As we reflect on Bret McLean’s life and the many individuals who face similar health challenges, it’s evident that heart disease is a battle we must join in together. To honor Bret’s memory, encouraging discussions about heart health and fostering community awareness can simply do a good deal in saving lives.