Died May 20, 2024
LELAND-Jeffrey Scott MacMillan, affectionately known as “Mac,” passed away in Leland, Michigan, on May 20, 2024. He was born on March 7, 1953, in Hackensack, New Jersey and grew up in Davenport, Iowa; where he rose to the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America.
Mac’s life was marked by his adventurous spirit, intellectual curiosity, and deep love for his family and friends.
Mac was preceded in death by his parents, Doris and I.A. MacMillan, his brother, Andrew, and former spouse, Barbara. He leaves behind his devoted partner of 17 years, Susan Oliver; his three children, Charles O. MacMillan, Anne E. P. Liu (husband Jeff ), and Thomas O. MacMillan; his two grandsons, Everett B. Liu and Parker H. Liu; and his loyal dog, Daisy.
Mac’s fascination with aviation began early; he became a licensed pilot before even earning a driver’s license. His passion for flying led to extensive travels, often piloting his beloved Beechcraft Bonanza to consulting jobs across the country. Mac was a proud alumnus of Purdue University, where he earned a B.S.I.M., and Marquette University, where he furthered his education graduating with a degree in Professional Engineering (P.E.) and an MBA.
Throughout his career as an engineering consultant, Mac was known for his innovative problem-solving skills and his dedication to clients which included companies from a wide range of industries included but not limited to Ford Motor Company, Exxon Mobile, Masonite and most recently helping several startups in the medical technology field. His personal interests were as remarkable as his professional journey, he was a talented skier and traveled extensively, embracing the rich history of his Scottish heritage. Mac’s love for Scotland was evidenced by his extensive Tartan wardrobe and 2019 trek to the MacMillan Clan castle, Findlay Stone in Renfrewshire, Scotland.
For the past 5 or 6 years Mac has worked for Lucie and Dan Matthies at Chateau Fontaine Winery starting at the tasting counter and morphing into the “Cheeseball King” when the original mix supplier went out of business. He applied his methodical analytical ability to duplicate the mysterious combination of the original recipe. During the annual “Hunt for the Reds of October” Mac bought himself a generic Russian submariner uniform, cut his hair in the style of Sean Connery—fellow Scotsman—and greeted customers at the door. October became his favorite month in Leelanau—and anyone lucky enough to have had the “Mac-as-Sean” experience left the winery with a smile and extra cases (hopefully.)
He was a thoughtful gift-giver, known for his meaningful presents. His friends and family periodically received individually personalized coffee mugs commemorating special events, complete with their names and faces. We all often thought it was funny (and maybe even a tad weird). His effort in creating these gifts reflected his deep care and consideration for those around him.
His legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him. We are in the process of arranging his service to take place in Leland, Michigan in the fall of 2024.
Please share condolences and memories with the family at www.martinson.info.
Arrangements are with the Martinson Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Leelanau.
