Dean John Mackay

Dean John Mackay, age 73, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, surrounded by the warmth and love of his family in Lancaster, Ohio. Born on March 27, 1951, in Chicago, Illinois, Dean faced early loss when his mother, Margaret Deane Traxler, passed away from cancer in 1957. He was lovingly raised by his grandmother, Alice Seltzer, in Southern California, whose nurturing spirit shaped his childhood years. Dean graduated from high school in Glendale, California, in 1969. He pursued higher education at Glendale Community College, setting the foundation for a distinguished career in IT and sales. Dean’s professional achievements included playing a key role in opening CompUSA branches in California & Washington, serving as a Sales Manager at Compaq, and excelling as a Sales Executive for Dell. Beyond his career, Dean had an enthusiasm for life and a profound love of music. He was often the heart of any gathering, delighting family and friends with his quick wit, infectious energy, and a smile that could light up a room. His passion for making others feel included and happy was evident in the joy he brought to those around him. A talented poet and actor, Dean poured his heart and soul into creative pursuits, often finding inspiration in the beauty of life. His spirituality and reflective nature shone through in his poetry, music, and numerous theatrical performances, where he frequently took on lead roles. Dean was also known for his love of food and the memories he created around it. From his famous mac and cheese, cherished by everyone who tasted it, to his frequent family outings to enjoy Mexican or Italian cuisine, he found ways to connect through shared meals. Even the waitstaff at his favorite local Red Lobster knew him by name, a testament to his warmth and generosity. At the core of Dean’s life was his unwavering devotion to family. Whether sharing his favorite movies (especially Star Wars), encouraging laughter and joy, or simply being present, he created lasting memories that will be treasured for generations. Dean shared a special and unbreakable bond with his twin sister, Raedeane Traxler Bringelson, whose connection with him was rooted in a lifetime of shared memories, laughter, and love. Dean was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 17 years, Barbara Mackay; his mother, Margaret Deane Traxler; his sister, Becky Traxler; his daughter, Sharron Henry; and his grandson, Jason Porembski. He is survived by his fiancée, Pam Janis; his siblings and their spouses, Raedeane Traxler Bringelson and Steven Bringelson, and Stephen and Julie Hubbard; his children and their spouses, Jason and Kristin Harlander, Anthony Armas, Darren and Tammy Armas, Luke Traxler, Deena and Jorge Gomez, and Devin and Kimberly Traxler; and his cherished grandchildren, Chase, Kaylee, and Esme Harlander; Cheryl and Kaden Sony; Nicole and Natalie Armas; Elijah Peters; Itzel Gomez; Ryan Porembski; and his two foster grandchildren. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Pickering House for their unwavering care and support during Dean’s final days. Dean’s life was a testament to love, laughter, and connection. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his kind heart, adventurous spirit, and the unforgettable mark he left on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Day Funeral Service is honored to serve the family of Dean Mackay.

Dean John Mackay

March 27, 1951 - January 21, 2025