Donald "Don" Richard MacKay

March 13, 1942 – July 28, 2026

On July 28, 2026, we said our final farewells to a strong man who left this world entirely on his own terms. After spending eight days in the hospital, it was determined that Don had cancer throughout his body. He chose not to pursue treatment and instead opted for Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID). He requested the earliest date available, and at exactly 1:57 PM, his heart stopped, and he peacefully entered the afterlife. Donald was a proud, retired Officer with the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), dedicating his career to serving and protecting the residents of Ontario with honor, integrity, and steady professionalism. Don shared the past 23 years of marriage with his wife, Gail MacKay (née Juby). Through all the ups and downs of a complex life, our family has chosen to lead with the values God teaches us: to let go of past hurts, leave trauma behind, and carry forward only love, grace, and forgiveness. Underneath it all, Don was a man with a true, good heart who stepped up for his family time and time again. We are finally placing those past burdens down. He was a man who deeply impacted everyone around him, and he was known and loved by many names—whether as Don, Dad, Daddio, Grandfather, or Poppa. His family will forever cherish the amazing days spent out on the water—camping, fishing, water skiing, and tubing while Don captained the boat. We will always fondly remember our times traveling the intertwined Seven Lakes, visiting Jumping Rock, and simply spending time together as a family sightseeing and watching the new homes being built. Don remained incredibly strong through this entire process. Before he left, he got to enjoy his final request—a chocolate-dipped ice cream cone from DQ. It brought our family so much peace to have some of his children and grandchildren alongside him. As he peacefully closed his eyes, the room was filled with love and the beautiful sounds of Michael Bublé's "Home" playing. Don leaves behind a large, beautifully blended family. He is lovingly remembered by his children Dawn Marie, Gregg (Erin), and Leigh (Dave). In 2001, his family grew to welcome Jim (Melanie), Stephen (Lorrie), Tammy (Mark), Tony (Susan), and Sherry (Tony). He left behind many grandchildren and a few great-grandchildren, all of whom adored their Grandfather and Poppa. He is predeceased by his mother Georgina Gledhill and his Aunt Isabelle. He is lovingly survived by his wife Gail, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family members. Our family wants to extend our deepest gratitude to the PRHC Palliative Care Team and the MAID Team. Your profound care, compassion, and kindness meant the world to us during this journey. In keeping with Don’s wishes, a private family gathering will be held at a later date to celebrate his life and legacy. Don, Dad, Daddio, Grandfather, Poppa—you were so strong. We love you, we'll miss you, and we know you’ll save a spot for us on the other side. 🤍🕊️