Obituary of Colin B. Mackay

Dr. Colin Bridges Mackay, July 26, 1920 - November 27, 2003. Colin was raised and lived a good part of his life in Rothesay, New Brunswick. He was the son of the late Colin and Jeanette D. (Bridges) Mackay. He was predeceased by his wife, Mary Ives (Anglin) in November, 2001. He is survived by his sister, Janet Hart of Vancouver, and a large number of cousins, nephews and nieces. Colin led an active and productive life, graduating from UNB with a BA in history; he went on to serve in the Second World War in the Royal Canadian Navy and was attached to the RN, commanding landing craft during the Normandy Invasion, on June 6th., 1944 and later in the Far East. After the War, Colin returned to school to graduate from UBC with a law degree in 1949 and then spent a brief period practicing and teaching law. Colin went on to serve as the President of the University of New Brunswick from 1953 to 1969. Dr. Mackay kept busy in a variety of roles following his term as President at UNB. He was the Executive Director of the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada from 1971-75. He was a member of the Canadian delegation to the 34th and 35th Assemblies of the United Nations (1979-80) and continued to act as a Special Advisor in 1981 and 1984. He was closely involved with the development of a number of universities in Botswana, Lesotho, Swaziland and Kenya. He served on numerous national and international boards and was very active in promoting the Arts in his home province. Dr. Mackay had many honours bestowed upon him over the years. He was appointed a Queen's Council in June of 1963 and an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1970. He received honorary degrees from 13 Universities. A tireless worker and adventurer, Colin kept himself busy until his health failed him in recent years. Known for his quick mind and his endless energy, he was a man who travelled the world and dined with heads of state, but was frequently spotted riding his motor scooter to his camp on the St. John River. He collected art and beautiful antiques but also enjoyed owning the latest gadgets and 'toys'. 'Uncle Colin' thoroughly enjoyed entertaining family at the Farm Camp and took great pleasure in teaching several generations about the proud history of their ancestors. He will be missed. Following cremation, the funeral will be held at St. Paul's Anglican Church, Rothesay, on Tuesday, December 2, 2003 with the service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place later in Fernhill Cemetery. Remembrances may be made to UNB or the charity of the donor's choice. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Brenan's Select Community Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, NB (506-634-7424).