David O. MacKinnon

David O. MacKinnon, 85, formerly of Wareham, MA, died peacefully on March 10, 2024, after a hard-fought battle with Parkinson’s Disease. 

David was born on June 22, 1938, in New Bedford, MA to Otto and Elaine (Matheson) MacKinnon and lived the majority of his life in Wareham, MA before moving to Manchester, NH in 2021 to be closer to family. He graduated from Wareham High School and the Massachusetts Maritime Academy, and he received his Master’s Degree in Education from Bridgewater State College. David worked 34 years for the Wareham School District. He started as a junior high school teacher, served as the high school vice-principal, principal, and director of adult education, and retired as the superintendent of schools. He was also involved in many community organizations, including the Social Harmony Masonic Lodge, where he was a 32nd Degree Mason and Shriner. David proudly served in the U. S. Naval Reserves for 29 years, retiring as a Commander.

In his personal life, David was dedicated to his family and extensive network of friends. He enjoyed traveling the world with his wife, Beverly, cheering on his grandchildren at their many sports games, and spending quiet moments at home with those he loved. He will be remembered for his sense of humor, love of ice cream, and sincere care for anyone he knew.  

David is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Beverly Jean MacKinnon, currently of Manchester, NH; his children, Darlene Sargent (David) of Bedford, NH, David MacKinnon, Jr. (Diane) of Westbrook, CT; three grandchildren, Ashleigh Sargent, Meghan Sargent, and Branden MacKinnon (Taylor). He is also survived by two step-grandchildren, Matthew Gallitto (Kri) and Daniel Gallitto (Megi), three great-grandchildren, and a sister, Marjorie MacKinnon. 

SERVICES – A private service will be held at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, Grand Central Station P.O. Box 4777, New York, NY 10163, or a charity of your choice in his honor.