Donald L. MacMillan

SHIRLEY: Donald Leo MacMillan, 93, of Shirley and a former longtime Groton resident, died peacefully on May 7, 2023, at his residence surrounded by family. Don was born and raised in Groton, on August 26, 1929, one of eleven children born to John S. and Ruth B. (Marshall) MacMillan and resided in Groton for many years before moving to Shirley. Don worked his entire life in Groton, working first at Blood Farm, followed by many years at the Leatherboard Company and retiring as the Grounds Supervisor from the Groton School in 1993. The only time Don worked outside of Groton was the four years he served his country in the United States Navy during the Korean Conflict. He leaves his wife of fifty-five years, Gertrude Loretta (Desrosiers) Chenelle MacMillan. Don and Trudy met at a clam bake and married 4 months later, beginning a long life together. At the time of their marriage, Don was a 38-year-old bachelor, and Trudy was a widow with 4 young children who Don loved and raised as his own. They completed their family with the addition of 2 more children. In addition to his wife, Don leaves 6 children, Diane M. Chenelle of Nashua, NH, David R. Chenelle and his wife Coreen of Townsend, Susan C. Pedi of Tyngsboro, Kevin A. Chenelle and his wife Lauren of Dunstable, Lisa M. Carney and her husband David of Tyngsboro, and John L. MacMillan and his significant other, Sandy Kessmann of Fitchburg; fourteen grandchildren, David, Michelle, Karen, Brendan, Eric, Austin, Kyle, Christopher, Justine, Tyler, Zoe, Jacob, Alex and Zachary; and thirteen great-grandchildren! He was predeceased by his infant daughter, Donna Marie, and an infant grandson Ryan Chenelle. In addition to his love of family, Don was an avid outdoorsman spending significant time in his gardens and woods, and was known for planting and transplanting trees, gifting most away to family and friends. He also enjoyed spending time at his cottages in Damariscotta and Jefferson, Maine. Don attended St. Anthony’s Church in Shirley. There will be no calling hours, but a graveside service will be held on June 3rd at 10:30 a.m. at Groton Cemetery, 242 Hollis Street, Groton where Don served as a Cemetery Trustee for 40 years. The Anderson Funeral Homes, 250 Main Street, Townsend Center is assisting the family with arrangements. To leave an online condolence, please see www.andersonfuneral.com.

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Donald L. MacMillan

August 26, 1929 - May 7, 2023