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MURDOCH MACKAY
Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba to parents Annie and James MacKay. He was predeceased by siblings John, Bill, James, and Ann, as well as his wife Peggy (2016).
Born to the Silent Generation, he earned a B.A. from United College in 1950, followed by an LL.B. from the University of Manitoba in 1955.
Meeting Peggy was the best thing to ever happen to Murdoch. He was wise enough to realize that Peggy was a catch and after at least five proposal attempts, in 1960 she agreed to marry him and so began a charmed 56-year union.
Murdoch's professional and political journey took him on forking paths. He served as the chair of the Manitoba Labour Board for 7 years. His passion for politics led him to join the New Democratic Party and he eventually became provincial president from 1972 to 1974. He also ran as the NDP candidate in his childhood neighbourhood of Wolseley in the 1973 provincial election. A man of fluid political perspectives, in 1981 he went on to be a co-founder of the Manitoba Progressive Party.
Beyond politics, he was a Director of the Winnipeg Art Gallery, the Main Street Project, President of the Manitoba Dairy Manufacturers Association, Vice President of the Canadian Paraplegic Association, Director of the Mount Carmel Clinic and a proprietor of Superior Cheese Canada Ltd.
Called to the bar in 1955 and later designated with a Queen’s Counsel in 1970, he practiced at Christie Degraves and MacKay and then at Duboff Edwards Schachter. His clients and colleagues often became lifelong friends – a testament to Murdoch’s character, competence, and loyalty. At the time of his death, Murdoch was the longest practicing lawyer in Manitoba.
A provocateur, Murdoch delighted in fomenting intellectual friction and relished the opportunity to do so during his weekend breakfast club gatherings, family Sunday dinners, or over a rum and coke poolside with his large circle of friends.
Murdoch was a devoted family man. He is survived by his children Anne (Paul), Scott (Mag), James (Alison), Jane (Ihor), John (Ginette) and Cameron; his grandchildren Beth (Jeff), Evan (Brett), Wynn, Adam, James, Jack, and Abby; and his great-grandchildren Theodore and Cameron.
His was a life well lived.
The family is grateful for the extraordinary care and consideration given to Murdoch by Dr. Mike Johnson and the many health care providers at Health Sciences Centre and Concordia Hospital.
It was his wish that there be no commemoration. Flowers are gratefully declined. Those wishing to do so may donate to a charity of their choice.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 22, 2023
Condolences & Memories (9 entries)
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I met Mr. MacKay during my time working for Paladin Security at 155 Carlton Street between 2019-2022. When my shift would switch from overnights to morning shift, I’d see him in the morning and greet him like everyone else in the building heading to work. He left a lasting impression on me as a kind older fellow who always seemed like he was having a good day no matter what. We’d chat in the lobby when the old elevators were still around and I’d make sure he had an elevator open for him and ready to take him upstairs during the morning rush. Him, as well as the rest of the Duboff Edwards Schachter Law team were always kind towards me during my time there. Murdoch will be surely missed. Rest in Peace Mr. McKay. - Posted by: Katie Genoway (Ex-Security Officer) on: Dec 29, 2023
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Murdoch was such a delight to work with, his sense of humour was both charming and elegant. He had a way of talking with you, not to you that was such a welcoming trait not all lawyers have. His mentorship had impact. - Posted by: Grace Karpinsky (coworker) on: Aug 29, 2023
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An outstanding person and family. My family was lucky to have been neighbors and friends. - Posted by: Chris L Reynolds (Friends and neighbors ) on: Jul 30, 2023
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Dear John, Ann and Scott: Timothy and I send you our Sympathy from Vancouver over the loss of your dear father. So many wonderful memories of when we lived on Kingsway around the corner from you. Your Mum and Dad were always so kind and generous to us as we had no family in Winnipeg - You are in our thoughts and prayers. Arlene and Timothy McDermott. - Posted by: Arlene McDermott (Friends) on: Jul 25, 2023
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Murdoch was always ready for a new idea, a new discussion , a new adventure. He first came into my life in first year university and we shared so many of those adventures. When he started dating Peggy who was a friend from childhood then we became even more entwined. Then when we moved to Winnipeg we got to know all the children. Which was great! So many happy memories. I am thinking of you all and sending my love and sympathy. Babs Church - Posted by: Babs Church (Friend) on: Jul 25, 2023
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Unfortunately I met Murdoch only later in his life. He was unknown person to me - who encouraged me about some things that I have written. Well - I soon discovered he knew two of my uncles - Bill Allison and Gerry Macdonald. He knew one of my aunt Joan's best friends - Dilly. He knew - very well- my journalism prof Alice Poyser. I will always remember feeling very much at home sitting around your pool Murdoch. Thanks RIP Bill Macdonald - Posted by: Bill Macdonald (Friend) on: Jul 25, 2023
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The door at 204 Dromore was always unlocked and the cabinet to the left of the sink fully stocked. It was always a pleasure to see Mr. Mackay and engage in some political to and through during the cocktail hour. There was always a warm welcome and some great stories. My thoughts are with all of you. - Posted by: Deon Ramgoolam (Family friend ) on: Jul 23, 2023
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It’s absolutely heartbreaking to hear of the passing of Murdoch. I, Dan, have been part of the Mackay extended family since late 1970’s, I always enjoyed going for Sunday suppers, weddings, Anniversary’s swimming in there pool at the Mackay's beautiful home on Dromore avenue. Life sure won’t be the same without Murdoch and Peggy around, We all will miss them, May u RIP, this is Not goodbye it’s till we see u again. Please say hello to Peggy for us all, Godspeed Murdoch - Posted by: Dan , Danielle, Vincent (Family friend / younger Brother to Paul Edwards ) on: Jul 22, 2023
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I have many fond memories of Peggy and Murdoch. He was a wonderfully friendly man, and have enjoyed many a rum and coke with them in days gone by. My deepest condolences to the family. - Posted by: Katherine Sullivan (friend of Peggy's) on: Jul 22, 2023