Donald McCaig

Donald Earl McCaig VIRGINIA BEACH - Donald Earl McCaig passed away at the age of 86 on Dec. 4, 2008, in Sentara Virginia Beach Hospital. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Ellen Irene Abraham; two daughters, Margaret Taylor and Jerry Suhling of Indianapolis and Barbara Mathewson and her husband Richard of Virginia Beach. Donald was born in Gothenburg, Neb., and raised in McCook, Neb. He joined the Army during World War II. He served in the South Pacific with the Engineer Aviation Battalion as supply sergeant and was later transferred to the Base Headquarters Supply Depot. Honorably discharged after the war, Don returned to McCook where he met and wed his wife, Ellen. Don and Ellen's married life was a series of adventurous moves related to his career. He first returned to the Army for eight years as a second lieutenant, serving in Germany and the west coast of the United States. Upon leaving the Army, Don completed a degree in mechanical engineering at Oregon State. The engineering degree led to a career with the Army Corps of Engineers and assignments in Walla Walla, Wash., Philadelphia, Chicago and Indiana. Ultimately, Don and Ellen retired to Salem, Ore., building their dream home overlooking the Cascade Mountains. Having been caregiver to his wife, Ellen, for more than 30 years, in 2007, Don and Ellen moved to Atlantic Shores in Virginia Beach. The impetus for this move was to ensure that their daughter, Barbara, and the staff of Atlantic Shores would carry on the job of caring for Ellen. While very proud of his military service, Don was at heart an engineer who could and did build or fix anything. His happiest times were in his beloved shop amongst his extensive collection of tools. Friends are cordially invited to pay their respects to the family at Atlantic Shores Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2008, from 2 to 4 p.m. The Cremation Society of Virginia Beach asks that condolences can also be offered to Ellen at 761 Alliance Drive, No. 134, Virginia Beach, VA 23454. Memorial donations may be made to the Atlantic Shores Employees Fund.