Donald A. MacGregor

Donald Austin MacGregor, age 81, passed away peacefully in Syracuse, NY on May 9th, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Don was born in Danvers, Massachusetts, on March 2nd, 1945, to Donald E. and Mildred S. MacGregor. He considered himself fortunate to have a close relationship throughout his life with his 3 sisters, Sue Raimy, Betty Myford and Dorothy (Dot) Shomo. After moving to Erie, PA at age 10, Don graduated from Strong Vincent High School (class of ’63). After high school, he attended Washington & Jefferson College in Washington, PA, where he graduated with his bachelor’s degree and went on to dental school, graduating with a D.D.S. from Fairleigh Dickenson University, in Teaneck, New Jersey.

Early in high school, he met the love of his life, Catherine Louise Parsons. They were soul mates, dating throughout high school and college, and were married on July 11, 1970. Don and Cathy were a match made in heaven, loving, laughing, and supporting each other for over 54 years.

After dental school, Cathy and Don moved to Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri, where Donald served as an officer and dentist in the Army. In 1973, they moved back to Erie, where Don started his dental practice. He practiced for over 45 years, where he met and cared for countless people, many of which he would eventually call friends.

Throughout his successful career, he was active in many organizations such as the American Dental Society, Luther Memorial Church, where he served on the Board, and Gourmet Club. However, perhaps his largest commitment came from “teaming up” with Cathy on the countless projects at school or organizations throughout the community. He helped channel her endless energy and creative vision, providing the muscle and know-how to bring her artistic talent and spirit to life. He was a great carpenter who could build or fix just about anything. They would spend countless hours giving back to the community, making Erie a better place. They were perfect for each other.

Don was a kind, loving and giving person with a great sense of humor and an infectious laugh who loved to spend time with his friends and family. He enjoyed traveling to see new places or visit old faces. He didn’t blink to hop in the car with Cathy and drive off for a weekend trip. He always took the wheel with his partner by his side. No distance was too far. Don also found great joy creating memories with a group of lifelong friends, lovingly known as The Herd.

One of his great passions in life was playing golf with his friends. He relished his annual trips with the guys or couples’ trips with Cathy. He was fortunate to play some of the greatest courses in the world such as St. Andrews, Muirfield, Royal County Down and Royal Portrush. However, one of his greatest joys was playing golf with his three sons. It was his perfect foursome.

Don was a great father. Though Cathy was front and center raising their three boys, he was always there, providing love, support, and strong moral guidance, while setting the example of what it means to be a good husband, father and friend. He was proud of each of his boys and enjoyed welcoming their spouses into the family: Chris and Sharon MacGregor (Tyngsboro, MA), Dr. David and Misty MacGregor (Baldwinsville, NY) and Rob and Jen MacGregor (Charlotte, NC). Don also found joy in spending time with his five beloved grandchildren: Brandon, Nate, Hailey, Jack and Luke who all loved their Papa dearly.

While Don lost Cathy in February of 2025, a little over a year ago, he is now reunited with his most cherished love. He is home.

Friends may call at the Burton Quinn Scott Cremation and Funeral Services, Inc., West Ridge, 3801 West 26th Street, Erie, PA 16506 on Friday, June 12th from 2pm-6pm and are invited to the funeral service at Luther Memorial on 225 West 10th St, Erie, PA at 10am on June 13, 2026. Private burial in Laurel Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Luther Memorial Church or Academy at www.luthermemorialonline.org (Contribute Online button at bottom of page), or by mail to Luther Memorial Church, 225 W 10th St, Erie, PA 16501.

Send condolences at www.BurtonQuinnScott.com