Passed away at the Carleton District Memorial Hospital on Sunday, December 14th, 2025, at the age of 88 years. Beloved husband of Judith Ann McKay. Loving father of David (Barbara), Bryan (Sylvia) and Christopher (Sharon). Cherished grandfather of Brent (Leah), Curtis (Johanna), Shawn (Cassie) and Kyle (Tori), great-grandfather of Kieran, Claire and Conner, Brother of Michael MacKay (Judy), Son of the late Lorne and Beatrice McKay.
Donald served his country as an RCAF pilot, the work demanded precision, courage, and trust in others as well as a Captain with Air Canada before retiring.
Donald was thoughtful and dependable. He will be remembered by family and friends as a man of calm strength and integrity, someone who carried himself with dignity and left things better than he found them.
Family and friends are invited to Beechwood Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Services (280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa), on Tuesday, December 30th, 2025, for a Visitation from 12 noon until the time of the Memorial Service in Beechwood’s Sacred Space at 2 p.m., Reception to follow. For those who wish to donate in memory of Donald please do so toward the Lanark County Food Bank at 84 Mill Street, Carleton Place, ON K7C 1T5.
He will be deeply missed.
Digital Guestbook
Allan & Debbie Carruthers
Paul O'Leary
So sorry to hear of Donnie's passing he was a good uncle and friend, he will always be in my thoughts.
Michael Fermor
I was on RCAF flying training course with Don. Fondly remembered
Cathy O'Leary and Alan Smith
Sending love and condolences, thinking of you all; he will be missed.
Cathy O'Leary
Dear Judy and boys sorry to her of Donnie's passing. Mom (Shirley)always loved a visit from her brother Don. Donnie actually came to visit and spent a week with Mom when she was so ill. Donald always seem to be in control of any situation, that is a great asset. He will be missed. Our prayers and thoughts are with you all at this difficult time.
Steve & Chris Heggie
Dave and the McKay family, our thoughts and condolences go out to you all during this difficult time. He will be missed.
Harold E. Wright
Judy and family. My condolences, and also from the members of the Turnbull (NB) Chapter, Canadian Aviation Historical Society, and 250 Wing, RCAFA Inc. I am so thankful that I got to see Don last month. My heart will be heavy as I pay my respects to Don and to you on the 30th.
Brenda Roseberry
David and family, my deepest condolence. The team at Fremont Wright are thinking of you at this time.
Alexa and Ken Ryan
We are saddened to hear about Dons passing. He was always brightening a room…especially when he broke into song. Dave and Barb, we are thinking about you. Judy, we are so sorry.
Timi Hughes
My condolences to Judy and family. I met Don a few times and worked at St Joseph’s Hospital in Saint John NB with Shirley and where I met Ann. My brother, Paul Hughes and Don had been great friends for years. I will offer my mass for Don and family tomorrow.
In Sympathy and Friendship,
Timi Hughes
Our deepest condolences to the entire McKay family. Don was a special man , we always enjoyed his humour and his stories. So very sorry for your loss.
Allan & Debbie