James Mackay

James Peter Mackay, age 76, died peacefully at home after a hard fight from cancer surrounded by family on Wednesday, July 1, 2020.  He was born in Duluth, MN to James Carter Mackay and Louise (Adams) Mackay.  He graduated from Central High in Duluth, MN, class of 1961.  He served in the U.S. Navy from 1961 to 1964, and the U.S. Coast Guard from 1965 to 1984.  He served proudly onboard the USS ORISKANY, CGC TANEY, CGC WILLOW, CGC ACTIVE, CGC CHASE, CGC MESQUITE, CGC SUNDEW, and the CGC MORGENTHAU.  He retired from the U.S. Coast Guard as a Lieutenant.  He is survived by his wife Elaine (Ziemski) Mackay, and her children, Richard E. Peterson Jr., wife Terri and children, Todd M. Peterson, wife Jana and children, Rianne M. Peterson, husband Jerry and children; brother Tom Mackay and wife Liz of Duluth; sister Mary (Mackay) Gaidis and husband Mike of Duluth; daughter Carolyn Mackay Gribble and husband Steve Gribble of San Diego; son James Mark “Jimmy” Mackay; and grandchildren Casey James Susral Mackay, Kylie Mackay Gribble, and Nima Mackay.  Jim will be remembered and cherished as a great Husband, Father, Brother, Stepfather, and Grandfather.  Jim was always the life of the party and enthusiastically loved to share his adventures and experiences while serving in the military.  Jim loved to travel, both worldwide and cross-country with Elaine in their RV. Together they visited 49 of 50 states as well as several other countries.

The family would like to send a special thanks for the exceptional care from Dr. Wall, Brittany, and her staff; also a special thanks to Melissa, Vickie, and Destiny from Canon Hospice for taking such good care of Jim and all of us.

Due to COVID-19, services will be held at the Biloxi National Cemetery at a later date.  Date and time to be announced.