Donald James MacLellan II, age 72, of Suwannee, Georgia, passed away on December 28, 2021. On December 29, 1948, he was born to Donald James MacLellan, “Colonel” and Sylbia MacLellan “Dusty” in Van Nuys, California. As an Air Force brat, his family lived all over the United States and Japan. After graduating from high school, he enlisted and served as a proud Air Force combat controller in the Vietnam war. Following his time in the Air Force, Don worked for Hess Oil Corporation, was partners in a Chevron full-service gas station, and went on to have a successful career as a service director for several Chrysler and Kia automobile dealerships.
Don was most passionate about cars and drag racing and enjoyed working on his race-cars in his spare time. He built and raced a total of 3 separate drag cars, including a ‘68 Dodge Charger and two ‘72 Plymouth Dusters. He was a DIY kind of guy that wasn’t afraid to get his hands dirty and do the job himself. He could often be found helping a friend, neighbor, or family member with their car or engine problems. Don had a love for cooking, grilling, and eating many different cuisines. He loved recreating a family favorite or trying a new recipe he had seen in a magazine or on a cooking show. Don loved all animals, especially cats and dogs, and enjoyed watching the birds and nature around the yard from the back porch on evenings and weekends.
His family and colleagues well respected Don for his kindness, relentless work ethic, and generosity to others. He always believed in “doing the right thing” no matter the circumstance. His leadership and mentorship of others undoubtedly inspired all who surrounded him.
Don leaves behind his wife of 44 years, Janis Ricker MacLellan; sons, Donald James MacLellan III and Gant Preston MacLellan; his sisters, Lynn MacLellan Jenkins and Anita MacLellan Harvill; brother in law, Andy Harvill, brother in law, Bradford Ricker, brother in law, and Christopher Ricker; sister and brother in law, Leigh & Dennis Martin, and sister and brother in law, Stephanie & Gordon Ricker, along with many nieces & nephews, friends, and colleagues. His humble and loving character will be missed dearly.
DONATIONS
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18