Mr. Claude MacMillan
October 4, 1942 – January 19, 2020

Claude Vernon MacMillan died in Naples, Florida on January 19. He was the youngest son of Donald MacMillan and Elizabeth Trout and lived much of his life in Syracuse, New York, where he was a professor of philosophy for over 40 years at Onondaga Community College. He was beloved by his students for his unique sense of humor and lax grading policies. Many students wondered what was in the omnipresent coffee cup, and with good reason.

Claude was a brilliant philosopher, an amateur cosmologist, an embarrassing golfer and a very competent pool player, having had many opportunities for practice in the multiple bars he frequented throughout the Syracuse area. He had a passion for Syracuse basketball and football, and once led an intramural team of basketball players aptly named “Brain Damage.” He was a voracious reader, a philatelist, and loved crossword puzzles, chess and music. He was one of God’s kindest children, and abhorred cruelty in any and all forms.

Claude was valued in his many households for his ability to trap and release various insects and vermin who promptly returned to the home, but was an underwhelming mechanic and handyman, having blown off facial hair trying to light a pilot light, and having fallen through a roof in a misguided attempt to rescue vegetation growing there.

Claude obtained his undergraduate degree from Hartwick College and attended Columbia University prior to entering the Peace Corps. He obtained his Ph.D. from Syracuse University.

Claude was married for 30 years to Robin (Gooden) MacMillan. Adoring children were Heather Briccetti, Lorna Drew, Ian MacMillan, Martina MacMillan, Jonathan Haggett, David Matthews, James Matthews, Amanda Matthews and Eliot MacMillan. He also is survived by his brother, Duncan MacMillan, and was predeceased by his son Joshua, and two brothers, Charles and Ian MacMillan. He has eleven grandchildren.

A celebration of life is planned in New York State this summer. In lieu of contributions, buy yourself a drink and toast Claude. He loved you all.