Macrae, Donald
1920-2003
Don was born in Inverness, Scotland on December 7, 1920 to parents Sarah and Duncan. Don had twin sisters, Grace and Sadie, eight years older. All are now deceased.
After the family moved to Glasgow, Don’s childhood pursuits included soccer (footba) and Boys Brigade, with soccer winning out and his becoming an avid rangers, supporter; however he met his match at age 19 when he met Betty Casey, a Celtic supporter, the Rangers archrivals in Glasgow. Their common love of dancing soon bridged the rivalry, and their romance blossomed.The romance was suspended later that year with the outset of World War II. Don joined the Royal Air Force in 1939, not knowing what lay ahead. The attack on Pearl Harbor occurred on Don’s 21st Birthday.
After serving 6 years in the India/Nepal war theatre Don returned to Glasgow where he reconnected with Betty and in March 27, 1947 they were married. A son, Ian was born January 29, 1948 and daughter Anne on May 27, 1950.
Don is survived by Betty, Anne, Ian and Grandchildren Matthew, Andrew, Patrick and Derrick (sons of Anne and husband Peter) and Alec (son of Ian).
Don and Betty moved the family from Glasgow to Toronto, Canada in 1953, envisioning a land of opportunity. After a few years in Toronto, Don moved the family to Ajax, Ontario where he became involved with the Lions Club, serving as President. He also founded a Camp of the Sons of Scotland in Ajax.
After years of working in the Dental business for others, and working for himself at night Don, Betty and the family moved to Nanaimo, B.C. where Don opened his own Macrae Dental Lab in the 1970’s. He became an involved member of the Nanaimo business and social community, enjoying membership in Nanaimo CC and the Masonic Lodge.
In 1998 he was diagnosed with Alzeimers and moved to Kelowna in the care of his daughter, Anne, and eventually to Pine Acres Home in Westbank, where he lived his final years until his passing on August 31, 2003 at 7:55am.
He will be loved and remembered by his family for the solid home he and Betty provided and his pioneering spirit which promoted growth and opportunity for everyone in his life.
Memorial services will be held in Nanaimo, B.C. at a later date to be announced.