Percy Thomas "Mac" MacDonald

Boca Raton, Fla. - Percy Thomas "Mac" MacDonald, born on Jan. 26, 1925, in Oakland, Md., to Percy H. and Elsie M. MacDonald, passed away on Sept. 25, 2013, in Boca Raton, Fla. He formerly lived in New London and Waterford.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Margaret H. MacDonald; his daughters, Margot Robbins and Karen Jones and their families; and his sister, A. Billie Feher. He was a wonderful husband, father, and family man, as well as a good friend to all.

He served as an engineer in the Merchant Marine during World War II in the Mediterranean, Atlantic, and Pacific War zones. He survived the sinking of his ship on the Murmansk Run to Russia. He trained at the Merchant Marine Academy at Sheepshead Bay, N.Y., and attended Officer Training School in New London.

He was involved in many civic activities which included Rotary (Paul Harris Fellow), AOPA, Civil Air Patrol, NRA, Boy Scouts of America (Troop Leader), president of the New London County Pistol League, member of the Quaker Hill Rod and Gun Club, member of the Connecticut Auxiliary State Police, and served on the board of the Eugene O'Neill Theater. He was active in local politics and served as the second selectman of Waterford in the 1970s. Most recently he has served as the president of the Gulf Stream Chapter of American Merchant Marine Veterans. Proud of his Scottish heritage, he was a member of Clan Donald.

He also had his private pilot's license. He was a ship captain and marine engineer for many years for Mobil Oil Co. He also worked as a captain and engineer on the New London Cross Sound Ferries. He was vice president of Heebner Engineers and Builders of Philadelphia, Pa.

With his wife and family, he traveled extensively throughout the world in the United States, Europe, and Asia.

A viewing will take place from 1 to 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 29, 2013, with a service at 2:30 at the Kraeer Funeral Home in Baca Raton.

Donations in his memory may be made to the Gulf Stream Chapter of the American Merchant Marine Veterans, c/o M. Frassetti, 10525 Northwest 71st St., Tamarac, FL 33321.