Alastair Argo Mackie
August 21, 1950 - June 28, 2017
As published in the July 24, 2017 World-Spectator
Alastair arrived in Maryfield at 14 years of age. He had come from Scotland with his father, Dr. Argo Mackie, his mother Claire and his brother Hamish.
When we were kids one of the first memories I have of him is of his long hair, and very European clothes. Sweaters, casual pants and a way of being that spoke of his total independent character. He was in no way a conformist; in fact he often railed against rules and authority and was often challenging the status quo at school and amongst his friends. Argumentative, YES, mean spirited or vengeful NEVER.
In 1971 Alastair Mackie and Kathleen Rothwell married and had two daughters, Ruth and Erin. His daughters became his most treasured possessions. He adored his girls and when he spoke of them his face would light up. The pleasures he had from being a father doubled when he became a Grandfather to Lily and Cole. He filled his home with artwork, crafts and photos that kept them ever close to him when trips to see them were never enough.
The many years he spent working as an electrician at the Rocanville Potash Mine also fed his hunger for knowledge. He often said he learned so much from the guys he worked with. They laughed, discussed and bantered with each other on a daily basis for 35 years.
Alastair made lasting friendships during his years at Maryfield. He kept in touch with many of us throughout his life. He shared in our joys and our sorrows as life unfolded and we embarked on our careers, had families and travelled our individual paths.
Some of the friends he kept in touch with up to his death were: Fred Bil, Barry Lawless, Richard and Brenda Matte (Avlonitis) his neighbor and friend Bill Pit, Herb and Loretta, the Nixons and Pat Dailey a very special friend of his.
Alastair was not a lonely man, although he was often misunderstood as being a reclusive man. He loved the company of people that he could talk spirituality, politics, current events and endless other subjects. One very special person, Rosario Quaido brought a renewed spark to his life these past few years. He spoke often of the wonderful times he shared with her and her friends over dinners in Brandon.
In closing, as we adjust to the loss of this dear father, grandfather and friend I am sure that we will come to accept that part of us went with him when he passed, but more over part of him will remain with us forever.
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