Douglas J. Mackinder, age 76, passed away at his home on June 29, 2022 in Chelsea, Michigan.
Doug was born on November 1, 1945 in Highland Park, MI to Harold and Eloise (Crandall) Mackinder. Doug and his wife were graduates of Livonia’s Benjamin Franklin High School, class of 1964. Doug then attended Lawrence Tech University in Southfield, MI. Doug moved to the Chelsea area with his family in 1982. He was a mechanical engineer who purchased his father’s Romulus company, Lincoln Park Engineering, where he served as President and CEO. Later in life he started Mack’s Transportation, servicing local residents with rides to the airport as well as a courier service for local businesses.
Doug enjoyed his hot rods, racing cars, watching NASCAR, and cracking jokes. Beyond his passion for laughter, he had a passion for trains and attending area steam engine shows. Often the whole family would load up in the car to attend the shows or go for a drive to catch a glimpse of a steam engine.
Doug was an active leader in the development of the Chelsea Youth Soccer program in the mid-1980s. He was also a former member and president of the Chelsea Kiwanis Club.
On July 13, 1968, he married Diana L. Winger in Livonia, MI. Doug is survived by her, and their sons, Jeremy Mackinder of Louisville, KY and Nathan (Emily Taylor) Mackinder of Chelsea, MI; and daughter-in-law, Ronda Mackinder of Saline, MI. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Caleb, Zachary, Bradley, Calvin, and Charlie; his brother, David (Pat) Mackinder of Livingston, MT, and a sister, Paula (Gary) Schalk of Sterling Heights, MI. Additionally, he leaves behind his beloved springer spaniels, Daisy and Pepper. Doug was preceded in death by his parents, and his son, Christopher Mackinder.
A Memorial Service will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Thursday, July 28, 2022 at 1:00 p.m. with Eric Kieb officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. A reception will be held immediately after the service at Robin Hills Farm.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Chelsea Kiwanis Club.
