It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Donald Russell MacLeod, who died peacefully on July 17, 2025, at the age of 80, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on June 29, 1945, in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, "Donnie" spent his early years in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia in the Atlantic Provinces of Canada where he was raised with strong family values, a deep appreciation for community, and the quiet strength that would define his life.

He later moved to Watertown, Massachusetts, where he started a family and began a long and respected career in the trades as a professional painter, eventually working for the Town of Bedford, Massachusetts.

In addition to his professional life, Donald was deeply committed to serving others, most notably through his long-standing volunteer work at the VA Hospital in Bedford, MA, where he was honored for achieving more than 3,000 hours of service. His dedication to supporting veterans and giving back to his community was a true reflection of his character.

A passionate sports fan, Donald loved horse and dog racing plus all New England teams and true to his Canadian roots, he both played and followed hockey with enthusiasm, never missing a chance to support the Boston Bruins.

But it was the simple pleasures that brought Donald the most happiness—sitting in his screen house on a summer afternoon with a Red Sox game on the radio and the annual August trips back to Canada to visit family and friends were the highlight of his year, filled with laughter, love, and tradition. Among his favorite pastimes was the fiercely competitive "Washers" tournaments, where he proudly defended his championship titles alongside his loyal partner and long time friend, Todd Janes.

Donald is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years Karen Marie MacLeod (Urquhart); his daughter, Alexis Jean Kneeland (MacLeod), and her husband John Kneeland of Manchester, NH; and his son, Jason Russell MacLeod and his wife Jodie MacLeod (Bailey) of Bedford, MA. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Jason MacLeod, Jillian MacLeod, Avery Kneeland, and Jack Kneeland.

He is also survived by his sisters, Alexis Janes of Dipper Harbor, New Brunswick and Jean Butler of St. John, New Brunswick, as well as many cherished cousins, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends in both Canada and the United States.

Donnie was predeceased by his parents, John Daniel and Margaret MacLeod, and siblings Jack MacLeod, William MacLeod, and Mary MacPherson.

At Donnie's request, there will be no formal services and the family will host a celebration of his life and legacy in October, where his memory will be honored with stories, laughter, and the company of those he loved.

Known for his easygoing nature, deep loyalty, and love of good times with family and friends, Donnie will truly be missed.

"How's your bird!"