Obituary of Donald MacRae

CPT. Donald Edward MacRae 1981-2020 It is with great sadness that we, the family, announce the sudden passing of our son, Donald, at his Oromocto home, on August 13th, 2020 after a battle with illness. Born on March 16th, 1981, Donald's life, so unexpectedly, ended at the young age of 39. As we reflect on Donald's life, with heavy hearts, we remember his infectious smile, kind heart and his brave, adventurous personality. Donald was an Air Cadet with Glace Bay's 45 Squadron from age 12 until he graduated from Glace Bay High School in 1999. After graduation, Donald pursued his calling and enrolled in the Canadian Armed Forces. He furthered his military training and studies at his postings in Quebec, Ontario, PEI and New Brunswick. In 2012, Donald, selflessly, served his tour of duty in Afghanistan for 9 months. After his tour ended, he returned to New Brunswick to continue his service with 2RCR. With pride, dedication and love for his country Donald achieved the rank of Captain. He was a well respected member of the Canadian Armed Forces for 21 years. We will forever be indebted to his loyal service. Outside of work, Donald had a love for the outdoors. Many of his happiest times were spent camping, fishing, hunting and 4-wheeling. Spending time in the Cape Breton Highlands was one of his greatest pleasures. He always had country in his blood. Donald was an avid bowler in his earlier years, he loved the sport. He bowled locally in Glace Bay for 14 years and travelled the Maritimes to compete. Donald had countless friends and fellow service members who adored his company. They always spoke highly of the great man and friend he was. All of Donald's family will remember and cherish a lifetime of fond memories shared with him. Donald is survived by his parents Linda and Eddy MacRae ,Glace Bay; his sister Laura MacRae (Matthew) Glace Bay and his only niece and nephew Landon and Emma Hubley who he loved dearly. He is also survived by his Aunt Patricia Morrison (Darryl), Aunt Anne Hennessey (Bruce) and his cousins Ryan, Angela, Amanda, Brandon and Justin. Donald is predeceased by his maternal grandparents Lillian and Elmer Bell, his paternal grandparents Perses and Donald MacRae and his late Aunt Mary MacRae (John). Donald will also be sincerely missed by his two sweet pups, Sabot and Lola, who were his entire world. They never left his side. CPT MacRae, Son, Brother, Uncle and Friend, we hang up your uniform far too early. We are eternally grateful for the time we had with you and incredibly proud of you, your courage, honour and duty. Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held at T.J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists, 370 Reserve St., Glace Bay, N.S., Saturday, August 22 from 10am-12pm. Cpt. MacRae's memorial service will be held at 12pm, directed by the Canadian Armed Forces. Burial will be held at Forest Haven Memorial Gardens directly following the funeral service. All are welcome to gather at 259 Brookside St., Glace Bay, after burial, for a reception. Additional parking at St. Paul's Church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Wounded Warriors Canada. woundedwarriors.ca Due to COVID 19 Restrictions, the public is requested to follow social distancing and to wear a Mask. Thank you. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family by visiting www.tjtracey.com.