Allan Joseph MacDonald passed away in his beloved passive solar home in the country outside of Lompoc on January 10, 2024, from heart complications.

Allan was born on August 5, 1939, in Fort Macleod, Alberta, Canada, to Stephen & Florence MacDonald - the fifth child of a family of six.  In1942, the family relocated to the prairie town of Lethbridge, Alberta, where Allan graduated from St. Joseph's High School.  Thereafter, he attended and graduated from Gonzaga University in Spokane with an Education Degree.  In 1965 he began working at Lompoc High School where he taught English for the rest of his career.

Many of "Big Mac's" students will remember him as a mentor, friend and inspiration for how to live life on your own terms.  His longtime classroom, FL-2 at Lompoc High School, was a place where students in need could feel recognized and supported, even if they did not fit in elsewhere.  His beautiful home in the country was also open to anyone in need of good food, and a peaceful place to recover from life's challenges.  Al preached and practiced forgiveness - although he was quick to challenge anyone who was too self-important or phony.

Al was a true Scot and proud of his Canadian heritage.  He had a curious and analytical mind and often offered a unique perspective to the norm. He enjoyed and encouraged lively debates with whoever would take the bait.

Al found his spiritual inspiration in attending church at the Old Mission Santa Ines and the San Lorenzo Seminary.  He enjoyed sailing his Ericson sailboat docked in Ventura harbor, tending his rose garden, walking local parks, practicing Tai Chi, taking classes, mowing the fields on his tractor and finding a good deal.  He attended family events in Canada and the US as well as international locations where his son Laird resided and worked.  A vacation to China was shared with Allan's sister Margie, and was very memorable for both.  Al also visited Laird's homes in Manila, Caracas and Costa Rica. Everywhere he went he recognized and celebrated the humanity of the people he encountered.

Allan is predeceased by his parents Stephen and Florence, sisters and their spouses; Frances (Roy Wolke) of Houston; Florence (Karl Boll) of Auburn; brother Ken MacDonald of Calgary; and nephews, Michael Wolke, Stephen Boll and David Foltz.  Allan is survived by his loving son Laird MacDonald and wife Maria del Mar Alfaro of Costa Rica, grandchildren, Fisher and Malin MacDonald, sisters Barbara Foltz (Walter (d) Spokane; Margaret Nazarchuk (Paul), Calgary; sister-in-law Nadine (Ken (d) Calgary; and many loving nephews and nieces who were fond of their uncle Al.

Al will be missed greatly by family and friends for his sharp mind and compassionate heart. A service is scheduled for Thursday, January 18 at 10:00 AM at the Lompoc Cemetery Pavilion.