Dr. Donald Ernest McMillan

Dr. Donald E. McMillan MD, a devoted husband, proud father, cherished grandfather, pioneering researcher, and compassionate healer, passed away peacefully on November 25, 2024, at the age of 92. Born on December 13, 1931, his life was a testament to passion, integrity, and love—for both the people he cherished and the work he pursued with unwavering dedication.

Donald grew up with a keen intellect and an insatiable curiosity that led him to excel academically. He earned both his Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry (1953) and Medical Degree (1957) from Stanford University, an institution that served as the launchpad for his extraordinary career. His years at Stanford instilled not only a rigorous scientific foundation but also a profound sense of purpose that he carried throughout his life.

Don began his medical career in the United States Public Health Service where he served in various posts including a Coast Guard Cutter and the Public Health Hospital in San Francisco.

As a distinguished researcher, Dr. McMillan made lasting contributions at several renowned institutions. He began his research career at the Sansum Medical Clinic in Santa Barbara, California, where he advanced groundbreaking studies in diabetes and vascular health. He later served at the Hal B. Wallis Research Facility at Eisenhower Medical Center in Rancho Mirage, California, where he conducted pioneering research on the vascular complications of diabetes, focusing on blood flow properties and their impact on diabetic patients. Finally, Dr. McMillan brought his expertise to the University of Florida and the State of Florida Diabetes Center, where he not only continued his impactful research but also took immense pride in helping patients manage their diabetes. He was particularly proud of his ability to communicate with patients in Spanish, fostering meaningful connections and offering them a sense of comfort and understanding. His ability to care for and relate to his patients was one of his most cherished professional achievements. Additionally, he mentored future generations of medical professionals with the same passion and precision that defined his career.

His work at these institutions solidified his reputation as a pioneer in his field. Among his many publications, his seminal work, "Development of Vascular Complications in Diabetes," remains a cornerstone in the field, reflecting his lifelong commitment to improving the lives of those suffering from diabetes worldwide.

Beyond the laboratory, Donald was a man of immense warmth and connection. He was deeply passionate about people and valued the relationships that enriched his life. His wife, Marilyn, whom he tenderly referred to as "the love of his life” was the center of his universe. Together, they built a family he adored, including their children: David McMillan (and spouse Jane McMillan), Mark McMillan (and spouse Denise McMillan), Bob McMillan (and spouse Kelly McMillan), and Rhannon McMillan. His grandchildren—Derek McMillan (and spouse Piya Kishore), Rosie Robles (and great-grandchild DJ Mathews), Cassandra Williams (and spouse Nick Williams, with great-grandchildren Gavin, Blake, Cole, and Wyatt), Raeann McMillan, Kimber McMillan (and spouse Travis Lovgren, with great-grandchildren Tinley and Tegan Lovgren), Shaen Sellam, Shandra Sellam, Logan Sellam, and Liana Sellam—were his greatest source of joy, each one a bright star in his life. Preceded in death by his children Kathie Morgan and Bruce McMillan.

Donald’s legacy is defined not only by his professional achievements but also by the values he embodied. He was a man of integrity, tolerance, and principles, deeply thoughtful and introspective. He believed in the power of connection, whether through the bonds of family, the mentorship of young researchers, or the care he showed his patients. His impact was profound and far-reaching, touching lives across generations and continents.

A life so full of purpose, love, and passion deserves to be celebrated. Dr. McMillan will be remembered as a trailblazer in his field, a man devoted to bettering the lives of others, and above all, a family man whose heart was as boundless as his intellect.

Dr. Donald E. McMillan—beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend—lived a life of profound meaning and impact. His legacy will endure in the hearts of those who loved him and in the countless lives his work has touched.