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Tributes have flooded in for legendary radio star Dan McLean, who spent almost 40 years as the face of CHCH News following his death at the age of 78 on Friday, April 24. The star died in the Brightshores Health System facility, and his family confirmed his death to CHCH News, where he had been the senior news anchor for 37 years. While this was where he became a staple in listeners' living rooms, he had begun his broadcasting career at the age of just 15, in a part-time radio position in Welland. He went on to work in other areas of Ontario, including Barrie and Kitchener, before eventually being hired at CHCH.

Throughout his almost four decades on air, he hosted midday talks and anchored the news, earning numerous accolades for his work. His awards included an RTDNA Lifetime Achievement Award and the Queen's Jubilee Medal. In 2001, he was named Hamilton's Citizen of the Year. His final broadcast for the channel before retirement was in December 2008.

Throughout his career, he frequently gave back to the community and was a leader on the CHCH team that raised millions of dollars for the McMaster Children's Hospital and many other charities.

He also mentored and nurtured younger local journalists who came through the doors of the broadcaster.

In his final broadcast, he said, "It has always been my belief that you should give what you get, and this community has been exceptional to my family and me, and I'm very appreciative of that."

Tributes flooded in for the star as fans learnt of his death. Writing on Facebook, one recalled: "A familiar face in our living rooms for generations. He always delivered the news with equanimity. A reliable guide to the world around us. #RIP."

Another added: "There's a picture of me with my birthday cake at maybe four years old, and he's on the TV screen behind me. It would have been in this era, too. Strong, authoritative news read. A toast to a veteran broadcaster."

A third chimed in: "RIP Dan, condolences to all who loved him, clearly there were many! I do remember him on my TV during much hustle and bustle mornings. So sad to lose such a sweet local icon!"

A fourth shared: "How very sad. Watched him religiously. A great news anchor. My condolences to his family, friends, and those who new him!"

Meanwhile a sixth [enned: "Rest in peace Dan. He brought professionalism & heart to his newscasts. I remember 32 years ago my Grandma bought my dad a watch for his 50th birthday, she said 'it's exactly like Dan's watch that he wears on tv'. Hamilton will remember him fondly!"