Ross Mackie Death and Obituary – The Oshawa community is mourning the loss of Ross Mackie, a prominent figure whose contributions to the Canadian Automotive Museum and the trucking industry will never be forgotten. Mackie, a devoted board member at the museum and a passionate advocate for preserving Canada’s transportation history, passed away recently, leaving a lasting legacy in both the automotive and trucking sectors.
Mackie’s journey with the Canadian Automotive Museum began nearly thirty years ago, when he first joined the museum’s Board of Directors. His commitment to the institution was evident from the start, as he dedicated countless hours to preserving and expanding the museum’s collections. Mackie was particularly interested in Canada’s trucking history, an area that would become central to his work at the museum. His unwavering passion for automotive heritage, especially within the context of transportation and trucking, shaped the direction of the museum and ensured that future generations would be able to appreciate the significance of Canada’s rich automotive past.
During his tenure, Mackie was an instrumental force in guiding the museum’s mission and success. His leadership and vision were pivotal in ensuring that the museum was more than just a collection of vehicles—it became a center for education and cultural preservation. Even after his retirement in 2020, Mackie remained a key figure at the museum. His continued involvement in events, where he shared his insights and expertise, highlighted his deep love for the museum and its mission.
The Canadian Automotive Museum expressed its profound sorrow at Mackie’s passing, noting on social media, “It is with incredible sadness that we share the passing of Ross Mackie. Ross served diligently for decades on the Board of Directors of the Canadian Automotive Museum. His passion for preserving our Automotive Heritage and, in particular, Trucking and Transportation heritage was always present.” This heartfelt tribute reflects the deep respect and admiration that the museum staff and community held for Mackie.
Mackie’s influence extended far beyond the museum. In addition to his work in automotive history, he was a well-respected leader in the trucking industry. His family business, Mackie Transportation, was a testament to his dedication to the sector. The company issued a statement expressing their grief, saying, “Ross’s dedication to the trucking industry was unmatched, and his passion for the business was evident in everything he did.” Under Mackie’s leadership, Mackie Transportation grew to become a key player in the industry, and his legacy continues to shape the company’s future.
Even in his later years, as Mackie battled dementia, his legacy remained strong. His contributions to both the automotive and trucking industries were a source of pride for his family, colleagues, and community. Mackie was not just a leader; he was a mentor, a friend, and a source of inspiration to everyone who had the privilege of working with him.
Ross Mackie’s passing marks the end of an era for both the Canadian Automotive Museum and the trucking industry. However, his influence will be felt for years to come. The museum and Mackie Transportation will continue to honor his memory by preserving the history he worked so hard to protect. His dedication, hard work, and passion for the preservation of history will remain an inspiration for future generations.
As Oshawa and the greater community mourn the loss of Ross Mackie, they also celebrate his remarkable contributions. His leadership, vision, and generosity of spirit have left an indelible mark on both the Canadian Automotive Museum and the trucking industry. His legacy, defined by his tireless efforts and deep love for history, will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps, ensuring that his work endures long after his passing.
