Dr. Andrew Richard MacRae, Ph.D., FCACB
After a courageous battle with cancer, Andrew Richard MacRae passed away peacefully surrounded by his family in his 80th year of life on September 29, 2025. Beloved husband of Catherine for 34 years. Loving and devoted father of Laura (Andrew) and Heather (Dietrich). Proud grandfather of baby Emily. Fondly remembered by his brothers David (Sheila) and Charles (Beth), as well as his nieces, nephews, and many dear friends.
In his career as a Clinical Biochemist, he was instrumental in leading the establishment of the Maternal Serum Screening program in Ontario and fostered its uniformity across Canada. He also had a tremendous impact on improving laboratory testing for heart attacks, with provincial and national awards acknowledging his outstanding contributions in the laboratory medicine discipline of clinical chemistry.
He loved spending time on Georgian Bay and was an avid sailor. In the winter, he enjoyed curling at the Penetanguishene Curling Club. He was a devoted member of the Cellar Singers choir and always kept music as an important part of his life.
Thank you to his exceptional medical team including Dr. Colin Cochrane, Dr. Anne Gannon, Dr. Robert El-Maraghi, Dr. Juhu Kamra, Bayshore nurse Kristy, and all of the medical staff and volunteers at Hospice Huronia – Tomkins House.
Guests will be received at Carson Funeral Home – J.H. Lynn Chapel (705) 526-6551, located at 290 First St. in Midland, Ontario on Saturday, November 1, 2025 from 11:00 am until the time we celebrate his life in the chapel starting at 1:00 pm. A reception will follow on site. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice Huronia –Tomkins House and are greatly appreciated.
Online condolences and memories may be left at www.carsonfuneralhomes.com
Condolences
Man Khun Chan
Nov 3, 2025Dear Cathy, Laura and Heather, Sorry to hear about Andy's passing. I just found out today of his passing. Andy was a mentor and friend for the last 35 years. I have many fond memories of the time we spent on Georgian Bay. Wishing you peace as you grieve. The last e-mail I received from Andy was Nov 10 2022. See below. I shall miss him dearly. Hello Man Khun, I've appended a photo of a very important note you once sent to me. Perhaps you remember the circumstances? I certainly do. I recall this event from time to time - and more often than you might think! The most recent recollection was just last week. Then today, by sheer coincidence, I found that I've stored your note for the past 24.5 years right here in my desk drawer. And what I always recall from those days is your friendship, loyalty, skills, and clarity of perspective. Cathy and I hope you and your family are in good health. With our warm wishes. /AC.
Nancy Main & Anne Hughes
Nov 1, 2025Dear Cathy, Laura and Heather. We are so sorry to hear about Andy’s passing. Sending love as you navigate this difficult time. May the wonderful memories of happy times on the Bay bring you joy and comfort.
Christine Collier
Nov 1, 2025Andrew MacRae PhD FCACB, was a wonderful teacher, mentor and colleague. His commitment, contributions and leadership of the profession of Clinical Biochemistry in Ontario and in Canada were exemplary, contributing very much to the quality and high level of functioning and success that our societies and members, and thus other medical specialties and the public, have benefited from over many decades. Andrew’s concerted effort to develop and initiate the Canadian Academy of Clinical Biochemistry and its fellowship and certification program enhanced the profession, and standardized its level of training, education and practice. I intuitively attempted to follow his lead, assuming that that was just how committed a clinical biochemist should be! I believe he was right, as most of us have thoroughly enjoyed our careers. What I appreciated most was his ongoing support and interest in not only the society, but also in his colleagues. He was always available to consult and help when he got a call. Andrew was very much appreciated, and will be missed.
Christine Clement
Oct 6, 2025Dear Catherine, Laura and Heather, I was sorry to learn of your loss. I met all of you about 20 years ago. The occasion was when the University of Toronto established a scholarship in honour of Andrew's father, Donald MacRae, in recognition of his many contributions in the field of Astronomy at UofT. On reading this obituary, I see that Andrew also made major scientific contributions in the field of Clinical Biochemistry. Well done. RIP.
Ian & Catharine Sadler
Oct 2, 2025Dear Cathy, Heather & Laura, our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. Andy was a dear friend to us and a tremendous support to Cathedral Singers. We send love & sincere condolences.
Donna and Bill Macfarlane
Oct 2, 2025Our deep condolences to Cathy and Heather and Laura on the passing of Andrew. Wishing you peace as you grieve.