Today the museum received word that Don Macpherson, one of the museum’s founding fathers, has passed away. Below is a note of condolence sent on behalf of the museum to the Macpherson family. Please keep Don and his family in your prayers.
Dear Macpherson Family,
On behalf of the Saskatchewan Aviation Museum, I wish to extend my sincere condolences on the passing of Don. As one of the founding fathers of the Saskatchewan Aviation Museum, Don played a very significant role in the vision and actualization of the museum. Without Don and the small band of visionaries, this museum would not be what it is today. Don’s optimism, determination and perseverance helped propel the development of the Saskatchewan Aviation Museum.
In addition, Don was our resident historian and storyteller. Don brought to life the history and importance of the museum’s artifacts. People were attracted to Don because of his welcoming personality and his gentle manner. Patrons were enriched by Don’s enthusiasm and his unbridled desire to share his knowledge and wit.
On a private note, I have known Don for over 35 years. I had opportunities to rub shoulders with Don when he worked as an English teacher for the Saskatoon Public Board. I was able to rekindle our friendship when he retired from the school board and began a new career at SIAST Kelsey. Don and my wife, Terry, taught together in the same program.
When I trained for my private pilot licence at Mitchinson’s Flight School, Don was one of my favorite flight instructors. I always enjoyed flying with Don. He had such a professional and caring manner which brought out the best in his students.
With his bag pipes and Scottish heritage, Don brought a real flare to the museum which can’t be duplicated. It was Don’s example and cajoling that I joined the Saskatchewan Aviation Museum family.
Although Don is no longer with us, his is spirit and love of his aviation history will be a model for others to follow for years to come.
I now imagine Don parked among angels with his pipes in one hand and a single malt scotch in the other regaling in aviation stories.
Although Don has left us, his spirit will remain with us for a very long time.
Sincerely,
Jim Jelinski
Saskatchewan Aviation Museum Board Chair
