We regret to advise of the death of Captain Frederick “Mac” McDonald (Ret’d) on 24 May 2014 at his home in London, ON at the age of 97 years.
Mac was born and raised in Emsdale ON and graduated from Victoria College at the University of Toronto in 1939. He was a veteran of the Second World War, commissioned in April 1941 and served in the United Kingdom and Northwest Europe.
Mac was initially assigned to the 1st Battalion, Royal Canadian Engineers in England, but in April 1944 was called to lead the newly formed 1st Landmark Unit, RCE. Their task was to supplement or provide directional landmarks in the forward battle areas for Allied air forces. The unit had three sections consisting of three sergeants and 19 Sappers, three trucks and a jeep. Landmarks were to be visible from 10,000 to 15,000 feet and were usually 50 by 100 yards in size. In Holland, they were often submerged shortly after being placed. Mac and his unit were often ahead of the advancing troops and fortunately never suffered a casualty nor fired a shot in anger. The unit was disbanded in May 1945 and Mac returned to the 1st Battalion with a promotion on discharge.
Returning to Canada, Mac spent three years prospecting throughout the North and then began a successful career in the chemical industry which took him around the globe, including postings in British Guyana, Florida, Niagara Falls, Montreal, Iran and New Jersey.
A private family service will be held in Huntsville at a later date. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Mac are asked to consider their local food bank. {dcJan18gd} [zsp, zkjt]
