MacDonald, David Miles
David Miles MacDonald
It is with absolute sadness we announce the passing of David Miles MacDonald, aged 72 years of Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. Dave quietly slipped away on Wednesday, April 8th, 2026.
Dave, the oldest of 4 children, was born in Indian Head, SK, to Len and Bette MacDonald. The family then moved to the Canada/US border where they were all raised in North Portal, SK.
To say that Dave was a train enthusiast would be an understatement. If Bette couldn’t find Dave at home, she would usually locate him by the railroad tracks watching a train go by. So, it was no surprise that Dave started work at Canadian Pacific Railway in 1974. He started his career in Estevan, SK, then Brandon and Minnedosa, Manitoba before settling in Moose Jaw. On Dave’s days off, many times he would return to North Portal to visit family and friends, and of course do some “train spotting”. Sometimes he would meet, “Chub” Zepp, a US friend and CP Rail counterpart at Pierre’s Place for a late afternoon Blue Ribbon. During one such meet, he met the new bartender, Mary Kaye Hawbaker. Soon Dave was coming in without Chub, still having the Blue Ribbon of course, to see Mary Kaye. They married in September 1992.
Dave and Mary Kaye have two children, Audra and Burke. Many, many trips were made between Moose Jaw and North Portal where Dave taught them how to pick out an SD 40-2 train engine and how to determine whether the cars on the train were loaded or empties.
In 2009, after 35 years with CP Rail, Dave retired. With both kids still in school, Dave made sure they got to all their sports and activities. In the Fall of 2009, Dave started driving school bus, something he really enjoyed, for several years. Dave and Mary Kaye were able to do a couple big trips. One to Guam to see their niece who was in the Navy there, and to Scotland for Audra and John’s wedding. In between family activities Dave spent many hours train spotting on his own or with his coworker and friend, Chris Dunbar.
He was predeceased by his parents, Bette and Leonard. Dave will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Mary Kaye; daughter, Audra (John Cameron); son, Burke (Nana Takahashi); brothers, Ian (Cathy) and Scott (Dorna); sister, Cathie (Gene Davis); as well as many in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends on both sides of the border. Dave will also be fondly remembered by his “Train Crew”, you know who you are.
As per Dave’s insistence, a Private Family Graveside Service will ne held at a later date. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Cara Ashworth, Funeral Director 306-693-4550
Oh Mary Kaye, I am so very sorry to hear of Dave’s passing. I have many great memories of Dave in our Border Bar and Pierre’s Place days! Please accept Ian’s and my deepest sympathies.
Dave was such a kind man! He will always be remembered by everyone who knew him! Thinking of you all!
Mary Axtmann Kynett
Mary Kaye, Burke and Audra, we were so saddened to hear of Dave’s passing. I loved his sense of humour and lively, fun spirit. He was such a kind and special person. We are truly sorry for your loss.
We will miss our cousin so much. Family get togethers were always better with Dave there. Our family just won’t be the same. Condolences to Mary Kaye, Burke and Audra and his brothers and sister, Cathie. Please know you are in our thoughts and hearts.
Mary Kaye
So sorry to hear of the loss of your husband. He sounds like a great guy. Let me know what is going on and if you need anything.
OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY
The Gerhardts
Linda,George, Scott
David was a quiet and caring man that will be greatly missed. I am going to miss our conversations. David was always calling to check on how his Texas Family was doing. My heart hurts for MaryKaye and the entire MacDonald Family. Love you David !!
Sorry for your loss Mary Kaye
Bill Mitchell
Moose Jaw
Thinking of you Marykaye and family, so sorry for your loss! May your memories bring you strength
My condolences to you all
Sending my deepest sympathies to the MacDonald family and all those feeling the loss. Cherish the great memories until you all meet up again in our forever home.
MK and family, my deepest condolences on the loss of Dave.
Sending my sincerest sympathies to you Mary Kaye and family.
Our condolences Mary Kaye, Burke and Audra. We always enjoyed visiting with Dave as we watched the kids in their various sports.i