Donald Murdoch MacLeod

Don was born in New York City on October 23, 1924, son of Donald MacLeod and Elsie MacLeod (née Hesketh), brother to Margaret Melling and Mae MacAndrew. He graduated from Jarvis Collegiate Institute, then earned a B.A. from Victoria University in the University of Toronto (Vic4T7) and an M.A. from the University of Toronto School of Graduate Studies (SGS 4T9). As a counselling psychologist and registered member of the College of Psychologists of Ontario, he made a career to helping others face the challenges of life.

While at Vic, Don met Caroline Jean MacIntosh. Don and Jean married on July 22, 1950 and made a life together for 66 years. They first settled in Winnipeg, where Don taught psychology at the University of Manitoba, then returned to Toronto, where he worked as a personnel officer for Ontario Hydro and a student counselor at Ryerson University..

Don was a lifelong seeker of truth. His curiosity was both contemplative and active, combining intellectual, religious, and philosophical inquiries with months-long cross-country family camping trips, and, in retirement, lengthy European adventures with his beloved Jean. Above all else, Don was a devoted husband, father and grandfather.

Don is survived by his children (and their partners), Peter, Scott (Laura), Rory (Joy), Ian (Catherine) and David; grandchildren and step-grandchildren, Caitlin, Meghan, Simon, Rory, Caroline, Brenna and James; his sister Mae and by his nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

A private family service will be held on Monday, March 11th, followed by interment at St. James Cemetery, Toronto.

In loving memory of Don and in honour of Don and Jean’s lifelong commitment to the pursuit of knowledge, the family wishes to expand a scholarship in their names at Victoria College. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to this scholarship (www.vicu.utoronto.ca/campaign/Commemorative_Giving.htm) or to Amnesty International.