It is with profound sorrow that we announce the death of Donald (Don) James MacLean. Don passed away peacefully on July 13, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones, at the age of 78 years. Don was a wonderful person who touched the lives of everyone he met. He will be remembered as a loving and caring man who was exceptionally devoted to his family.
A prairie boy at heart, Don was born and raised in Winnipeg. In 1960, the family relocated to Montreal, where he met his future wife, Heidi. After marrying in 1972, Heidi and Don moved to Ottawa, where they settled down and started their family with the births of Craig and Elizabeth. In the 1980s, the family bought a cottage on Grand Lake, in Val-des-Monts, Quebec. The cottage on Grand Lake provided an excellent location for outdoor adventures and entertaining, and it has remained an important focal point for family life ever since.
Don was bright, ambitious and driven to succeed in his career in telecommunications. His efforts and achievement were rewarded in 1992, when he was offered a diplomatic position at the International Communications Union in Geneva. Life in Switzerland offered new opportunities and excitement, but Ottawa remained the family home, and they moved back in 1999.
Don had varied interests, tireless energy and an infectious love of life. He was passionate about politics, history and literature, and he had an endearing interest in his Scottish cultural roots. These esoteric interests were matched by his love of canoeing, skiing, tennis, walking, slapstick comedy and his beloved Ottawa Senators. Don loved good food, good company and a hearty draught of fine scotch.
Heidi was Don’s loving wife and constant companion through thick and thin. In 51 years of marriage they travelled the world, visiting every continent except Antarctica. They doted on their children and beloved grandchildren, spoiling them with affection and attention at every possible opportunity.
Don passed away surrounded by the love of those who were closest to him, at peace with the end of his life and proud of all that he had been able to accomplish.
Friends are invited to celebrate Don’s life and assemble in the Sacred space of the Beechwood National Memorial Centre, 280 Beechwood Ave. Ottawa on Thursday July 25th after 12 noon. A memorial Service will be held at 1 p.m. followed by a reception. Those unable to attend in person, may attend virtually via live stream and register here. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Canadian Nurses Foundation to honour the exceptional care he received over the last few years.
Digital Guestbook
Marco Ghignone
Brenda Brand
With you in spirit! Hugs from Brenda and Ross
Anriette Esterhuysen
It was with great sadness that I heard the news. I have not seen Don for many years, but was fortunate enough to get updates on his life, and health, from a mutual friend. Don is one of those exceptional people who freely and selflessly contributed his time and insights to others working toward "democratising" access to telecoms and the internet. During my years as executive director of the Association for Progressive Communications (APC.org) Don was always ready to read, write, and share insights. We benefited enormously from his experience and knowledge. My gratitude and condolences to his family and friends. It was a privilege to have known him and worked with him.
We will miss you
You were a rare example of an outstanding amiable friendly and compassionate father grandfather friend