It is with great sadness the Ontario Trucking Association is announcing the passing of William (Bill) MacKinnon of MacKinnon Transport. He was 90.
Bill was an industry pioneer and key builder in the success and growth of OTA for over 50 years. Bill was the chair of the Ontario Trucking Association in 1976 and is the longest serving board member in the history of the association. He served a second term a few years later when the incumbent was not able to take the role. Bill also served as chair of the Canadian Trucking Association.
He was the recipient of the Service to Industry Award in 1980. Bill was a tireless supporter of the OTA and passionate about all trucking issues throughout his entire career. He will be greatly missed.
MacKinnon Transport first rolled into the trucking industry June 4, 1929 when Bill’s father, founder Alexander (Leslie) MacKinnon purchased a used 1928 Chevrolet straight-back to haul livestock, coal, fertilizer and other farm supplies.
When Bill turned 15, he obtained his driver’s licence and later purchased a second truck to begin growing the family business. Over the next several decades Bill guided he company into one of the most respected carriers in Ontario.
Bill was the beloved husband of 65 years to Lois MacKinnon (nee Gregson). Loving father of Evan MacKinnon, and Julie (Steve) Rattray. Cherished grandfather & great grandfather of Alex (Janet) MacKinnon, and Rhya, Mikayla, & Ellery, David (Jenny) MacKinnon, and Lucas & Madison, Katie (Tyler) Delong, and Liam, Kyle (Steph) Rattray, and Madi, Curtis Rattray, & Lauren Rattray.
Predeceased by his parents Alexander (Leslie) MacKinnon (founder of MacKinnon Transport), and Stella May (Limebeer).
Loving brother to Merle Giffen, predeceased by brother-in-law Warren Giffen 2017. Also loving brother-in-law to Lorna (Gregson) Foote. Predeceased by brother-in-law’s & sister-in-law’s Ansley & Marion Gregson, Doug & Peggy Gregson, Gord & Loreen Gregson, and Les Foote. Uncle Bill will also be missed by many nieces & nephews.
Friends will be received at the Gilbert MacIntyre and Son Funeral Home Hart chapel, 1099 Gordon St, Guelph, on Tuesday April 2nd from 3:00 to 8:00 PM. A memorial service for Bill will be held in the funeral home chapel on Wednesday April 3rd at 2:00 PM. As expressions of sympathy, donations may be made to the Crohn’s & Colitis Association. Donation cards are available at the funeral home. (519-821-5077), or online donation & condolences may be left at www.gilbertmacintyreandson.com
OTA sends its heartfelt condolences to Bill’s family.