Donald Robert Macaulay

Don was born July 31, 1934 to Ernest and Mae Macaulay, in Bridgeport, CT, the eldest of four boys. He was a 1952 graduate of Moorestown HS, NJ, and 1956 graduate of Norwich University, VT, where he received his degree in Civil Engineering. He served 6 months active duty with the US Army Transportation Corps and was in Standby Reserve until 1964. Don began his professional career with the Connecticut Highway Department where he helped plan portions of the state’s emerging Interstate Highway System. He met the love of his life, Alayne Stevens of Madison, WI, who at the time was teaching first grade in Hartford, CT. They married in 1960, and two years later moved to Madison where they raised four children. Don worked for the Madison Traffic Engineering Dept. for two years, and the State Dept of Transportation for 30 years.

Don enjoyed many wonderful years with Alayne ­— raising kids, camping, canoeing, biking, traveling. They enjoyed the good company of neighbors and friends, Norwegian folk dancing, and attending UW Madison PLATO classes. Don was a member of the Sons of Norway and Madison Torske Klubben. They were members of Bethel Lutheran Church for many years, and in later years Unity Church in Monona. Don and Alayne celebrated their 50th Anniversary while Alayne was in Hospice, and after her passing in 2010, Don gave much of his time to volunteering — with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network / Purple Stride, he could be found many Saturdays at the Farmers Market on the Square promoting awareness; and to Porchlight, helping prepare and serve meals. Don stayed active repairing and maintaining his house, visiting with neighbors and friends, enjoying the Wisconsin UnionTerrace, and on occasion joining his sons and their friends for a night on the town. Don spent many winters in Tampa with his daughter Sue, and her two boys.

Don was a talented piano player, and equally talented with his pen & ink, creating several heart-warming Christmas cards themed with subjects dear to him. He published several cartoons in the local Madison papers in the 80’s.

Don was a fighter to the end. He is survived by his brother Dave (Bert) Macaulay; three sons, Grant, Eric and Mark (Mary); Grandchildren Layna, Coltrane and Solveig Macaulay, Jack Kouwe, step-grandson Robert Kouwe, and Ian Hall; brother-in-law Richard Blaschke; sister-in-law Petitesa Macaulay; many nieces and nephews, and many wonderful, loving friends. Don is preceded in death by his wife Alayne, daughter Susan, brothers Jon and Alan, and son-in-law Bob Kouwe.

The family extends their sincere gratitude to the wonderful staffs at Renaissance Senior Living of Hilldale and Agrace Hospice for their compassion, care and support.

The Celebration of Life is Eternal.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, please consider a donation to The Dane County Humane Society or Wisconsin Public Radio.

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