Please enter a minimum of 2 characters to search.
Please enter a minimum of 2 characters to search.


Memorial Keepers(1)
They manage this memorial. Contact or join
Jonathan McLelland
James “Chief” Middleton McLelland
August 3rd, 1935 - November 26th, 2020
August 3rd, 1935 - November 26th, 2020
Create an event page to coordinate a gathering in honor of James “Chief”
Tributes
Share a favorite memory, send condolences, and honor James “Chief”’s life with a heartfelt message.
Don Siegel
My colleague and friend Ed Hinchey and I were talking today and Chief came up. We laughed and talked about his collegiality and kindness and smartness how much fun he is to have a scotch with. I looked to see if Chief still lived in the Saratoga area and just discovered he died last year during COVID--hopefully not from it. Ed and I both are sad hearing about our friend's death and wish the family well.
Tara Swinchatt
It’s been ages since I saw McLelland, as my dad Swinchat always referred to him. I always think of his booming voice and huge smile. He was certainly a larger than life individual. All the Swinchatt’s send condolences.
"ec"
Chief gave me my first nickname! Which I still use to this day in certain situations!! He made this awkward freshman feel cool and part of a big, fun group. I will always remember and be grateful!! ec - '78
Dan Gibson
Impossible to put into words the impact the Chief had on me and so many others; he didn't suffer fools, but thankfully he made an exception to the rule for me. The Chief was THE reason I got into Geology and have continued on with it ever since. He was an incredible teacher and mentor, and equally inspiring with his larger-than-life personality. The Chief fundamentally shaped my career path and made me a better person. I am forever grateful for having known and befriended the Chief. You are missed Chief, but thankfully, you are impossible to forget! Your legend burns bright, and will continue do so for years to come. My deepest condolences to the McLelland family. Love Giblet
Bethany Tietz

I had the pleasure of getting to know Chief through Petrology and the OC '96, but also the Australia Study Abroad '97 and the amazing horse trek through the Bob Marshall Wilderness '98. He was larger than life! Although I was certainly intimidated by him at the start, he was warm, entertaining and fostered a true sense of family and community throughout the geology world. I am happy to say that I did my first keg stand with him at the Canada Lake cabin, and will always remember him when appreciating a good scotch. I feel so lucky to have been taught the Dance of the Olivines and so many life lessons by such a great man. His memory will stay with me forever. Bethany Tietz '98
Jen Murray

I couldn't have said it better, Freddy. The Chief's lessons are baked into so many of our thoughts and deeds. We'll continue to pay tribute to him through our accomplishments. It would be wrong not to ;)
Copyright © 2026 Keeper Memorials, All rights reserved.