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David McKay Obituary
David L. McKay, retired associate professor of art education, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2014, in Durham, North Carolina.
David was born in 1928 in Detroit, Michigan and was educated at Wayne State University. He taught at Wayne State's School of Art before coming to Northern Illinois University in 1968. Until his retirement in 1994 from Northerns School of Art Education in the College of Visual Arts, he taught a variety of courses in art education and metalworking as well as chairing the Graduate Programs in Art.
David was a US Navy veteran from World War II and the Korean War. After his service he returned to Japan to live for several years before continuing his formal education back at Wayne State University. He continued his love of travel in foreign cultures with his wife Betsi, whom he married in 1970.
Dr. McKay was active in professional organizations such as the Illinois Art Education Association, where his leadership included the presidency in the late 1970's. He co-founded and was an active member of the Ogle County Arts Alliance. He received the Wayne State University Outstanding Art Educator Award, among other tributes. Of all his awards he was proudest of his students.
David was predeceased by his parents; and his brother, Richard.
He leaves to miss him already, his brother, Robert; numerous nieces and nephews; his wife, Betsi; and his loyal companions, Toby and Lyrica.
Cremation arrangements are being handled by The Cremation Society of North Carolina in conjunction with Capitol Funeral Home of Raleigh, North Carolina. A family memorial service is planned for a later date.
Memorials may be made to the donor's favorite scholarship fund or local animal rescue organization.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for David McKay
3 Entries
Kelly Thornburg
April 2, 2015
Dr. McKay was a favorite professor and mentor of mine. A man of brilliant wit, gentle spirit, excellent teacher. I'm saddened to hear of his passing. My condolences to his family.
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January 6, 2015
It was an honor to work with David. He was a man of integrity, quiet wit, and great patience. He was an excellent teacher, knowledgeable in his subject and always accessible to students. My condolences to Betsi and the family.
Mary-Glynn Boies
Sycamore, IL
Carolyn Canon
January 3, 2015
I remember Dave and my father, Chuck Canon, were both very good at spontaneous puns...I enjoyed having Dave as one of my professors. My condolences to all of the family, and Betsi especially.
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