Memorial
Ernest Emerson (Mac) McMillan, 96, passed away on Flag Day, June 14, 2017. A Celebration of Life for friends and family will be held at First Baptist Church-Church of the Brethren, 5200 Northland Avenue NE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on Saturday, July 8, at 2:00 p.m. Full military rites will be accorded.
Ernest was born on August 6, 1920 and raised on a farm near Tarkio, Missouri. He volunteered into the U.S. Army during WW II, interrupting his college career. Ernest served honorably in the European Theater and was awarded the Bronze Star Medal. He stayed in the Army Reserves 29 years, retiring with the rank of Colonel.
On June 9, 1946, Ernest married Doris Snyder of Fairbury, Nebraska. He completed his degree in Business Administration at the University of Nebraska in 1947 and became a member of the Federal Civil Service. He was employed 35 years in the Social Security Offices in Cedar Rapids and Des Moines. Following retirement, Ernest volunteered as a national auditor for the American Red Cross. He received the prestigious Clara Barton Award for outstanding service in 1997.
Ernest and Doris lived in Cedar Rapids most of their married life and were active members of the First Baptist Church-Church of the Brethren. Ernest taught adult Sunday school and served as Treasurer for many years. Travel took them to all 50 states and 13 foreign countries.
Ernest was preceded in death by his parents, all 9 brothers and sisters, and his wife of nearly 67 years.
He is survived by his children: Lynda (Rob) Courson of Belmond, Iowa, Joel (Carla) McMillan of Cedar Rapids, and Janet (Jerry) Juett of Marion; grandchildren: Stephanie (Kevin) Pothoven, Todd Courson, Jason Juett, James (Kelsey) Juett, and Jonathan Juett; great grandchildren: Sophia and Stella Pothoven; sister-in-law: Marilyn Hansen; together with nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors whose lives were enriched by knowing him.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to First Baptist Church-Church of the Brethren or the American Red Cross.