AUGUSTA - Francis Cates McLean, 69, of Augusta, died Thursday August 3, 2006 at MaineGeneral Medical Center in Augusta after a long illness. He was born in Weeks Mills, June 2, 1937 the youngest of the 7 children of Reed Jewett McLean and Minnie Grace (Jackson) McLean. His family moved to Augusta shortly after his birth and he lived there the rest of his life. He worked at the cotton mill and later at Statler Tissue along with various other jobs in the area. He once unloaded an entire 65 ton carload of coal, with a shovel, in 40 hours, without help. Francis was a familiar face in Augusta where he never owned a car, bicycle or other conveyance. During his lifetime, he, conservatively, walked over 22,000 miles. He was also extremely proud of the fact that, at the age of 20, he threw a golf ball sized rock across the Kennebec River, witnessed by three friends. Francis was also a walking history encyclopedia on the New York Yankees. He had a remarkable long-term memory. He was a member of the Augusta Eagles Club and was known as a kind and gentle man. He was predeceased by three brothers, Carleton, Russell and Cecil McLean and a sister, Shirley McLean Morrison. Surviving are two sisters, Arlene McLean Wheelock, of Farmingdale and Muriel McLean Fortin, of Winthrop; a sister-in-law, Sylvia McLean, of Hudson, NH; his long time friend, Dr. Brad Brown, of Vassalboro along with several cousins, nieces and nephews in Augusta, Rumford and surrounding areas as well as Hudson NH. A memorial service will be held for Francis at a later date. Mr. McLean?s family would like to thank all the doctors and nurses who gave him loving care while trying to extend his life. Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, One Church Street, Augusta.