“Grandad will be deeply missed” Moston’s beloved World War II hero remembered

Moston mourns the passing of Donald McCaig, a cherished WWII veteran and community hero, whose life and legacy continue to inspire many.

Written by Thom Bamford
Last updated 27 minutes ago
Community, People

The community of New Moston and beyond comes together to honour the remarkable life of Corporal Donald McCaig, a Second World War veteran whose legacy of courage, resilience, and community spirit will continue to inspire.

Donald passed away peacefully on November 10th, 2024, at the age of 103, leaving behind a life story rich in history, love, and service.

Corporal Donald McCaig

Born just after midnight on November 11th, 1921, at his family home in Miles Platting, Donald McCaig’s entry into the world was marked by a unique twist of fate.

His mother, reminded by the midwife that “We can’t have an Armistice Day baby!” had his birthdate officially recorded as November 10th. Despite this early adjustment, Donald’s life would be forever intertwined with the significant date of November 11th.

As the oldest of four children, Donald grew up in a modest household, learning the values of hard work and perseverance. By the age of 14, he had left school to begin work as a cabinet-maker, a trade he would continue to refine throughout his life. This early start in the workforce shaped his industrious nature and honed the skills that would later define his professional career.

A Manchester WW2 hero

When the world was plunged into the turmoil of the Second World War, Donald answered the call to serve his country. As a young man, he became one of the youngest members of his regiment, joining the esteemed ranks of the White Rhino 40, Queens Bays, 2nd Dragoon Guards, 2nd Army Brigade, 1st Army Division. His role as a radio and signal operator placed him at the heart of some of the most pivotal battles of the war.

Donald’s service was nothing short of heroic. He was part of the legendary Desert Rats, serving with distinction in the North African campaign and the Battle of El Alamein in 1942.

His journey took him through the challenging terrains of Libya and Italy, where he faced the perils of war with courage and resolve. In one particularly harrowing moment during the Italian campaign, Donald’s tank regiment was ambushed in a valley. War is a dangerous place.

Donald McCaig

Despite the horrors of war, Donald found solace and joy in the letters exchanged with his beloved Hilda, whom he met just days before being conscripted abroad. Their love blossomed through the written word, sustaining them both until they could reunite and marry in 1946. This enduring love story added a profound personal triumph to Donald’s life, as he and Hilda built a beautiful family together.

Returning to Manchester

After the war, Donald returned to civilian life, resuming his work as a cabinet-maker and joiner, a profession he continued until his retirement. Together with Hilda, Donald raised three children—Stuart, Ian, and Lindsey—and later became a devoted grandfather and great-grandfather. His family was his pride and joy, and he remained a loving and supportive presence in their lives.

Donald was a huge part of his community. He was a regular at the Fairway Inn, a pub that held special significance for the McCaig family, as his own father had frequented it during its earlier days as the Broadway pub. Donald’s connection to the pub, and his participation in the community events held there, reflected his deep roots in New Moston.

A milestone celebration

Donald McCaig’s 100th birthday in 2021 beautifully reflected the community’s deep respect and admiration for him. The milestone celebration was held at the Joseph Holt pub, the Fairway Inn, in Moston, where Donald, a long-time regular, was joined by family, friends, and members of the local and military community.

You can find out more about the Fairway Inn by clicking here

Mark Sweetland, the landlord of the Fairway Inn and a veteran himself, went above and beyond to ensure the day was special. With the support of the local community and schoolchildren who designed cards, the event was filled with heartfelt tributes and special moments. A piper from the Northenden Pipe Band played, adding a stirring and emotional backdrop to the festivities.

Donald’s daughter, Lindsey, expressed the family’s pride in her father’s legacy, noting his service as a young man who faced the trials of war and returned to build a life filled with love and dedication. “We are just so, so proud of dad,” Lindsey said. “Especially since he went off to fight when he was such a young man.”

The celebration just went to show Donald’s popularity, not only as a war hero but as a beloved member of the community. It was a day filled with joy, remembrance, and gratitude, reflecting the deep respect held for Donald by all who knew him.

A legacy of service and remembrance

Karen Crookes was Donald’s Granddaughter. We sat down with her to talk about her amazing Grandpa.

She said: “My grandad, who lived on Nevin Road in Broadway, Moston, left me with some of the fondest memories. I often recall watching him tend to his garden and vegetable patch with great care. We enjoyed plenty of rhubarb crumble thanks to the rhubarb he grew and the delicious crumbles my nana made from it.

“I spent many weekends at my grandparents’ home, where I loved the tent my grandad helped me make out of a sheet hung on the washing line—his clever idea. He was such a witty character, always reminding me to “be yourself.” He also shared his gardening knowledge with me, offering tips when I rented my first home in Harpurhey, as I was clueless about gardening at the time. He would come by to mow my grass, plant trees, and add a few plants to brighten up the space. His philosophy on life was simple yet profound: “It is what it is.” He was a grateful man who deeply loved his family.

“Grandad often told stories about his time as a Desert Rat during the war. He was very young when he joined the military, and both he and my other grandad shared fascinating tales of their experiences. I feel incredibly lucky to have heard those stories as a child. Grandad also enjoyed a pint and was a regular visitor to the British Legion with my nana most weekends.

“He worked alongside my dad at Evans Bellhouses in Newton Heath in the wood trade. In his later years, when he developed Alzheimer’s, he received tremendous support from his sons and daughters, though it was a difficult time for the family. My nana, too, passed away in 2019 after battling dementia.

“Grandad will be deeply missed but always remembered. I’m proud to be his granddaughter.”

On Friday, January 10th, Moston will raise a glass in his honour.

The day will begin at St. Mary’s Church in Moston and continue to Blackley Cemetery, where he will be laid to rest beside his late granddaughter, Tracy McCaig, and reunited with his beloved wife, Hilda.

He will receive the send-off he truly deserves, with a military tribute from the Queen’s Regiment, who are traveling up from the south to honour him with a bugle call farewell.

Donald’s life was a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit. His dedication to his family, his country, and his community left an indelible mark on those around him. He was not only a war hero but also a beloved figure in New Moston, where his stories and memories continue to be cherished.

Even during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, Donald’s indomitable spirit shone through. Despite the illness and isolation, he maintained a positive outlook and adapted to new ways of connecting with his family, including using technology to bridge the physical distance. His resilience in the face of adversity served as an inspiration to all who knew him.

Donald McCaig’s funeral

As we prepare to say our final goodbyes at Donald’s funeral on January 10th, we reflect on a life well-lived—a life of service, love and dedication. Donald McCaig’s legacy will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the entire community of New Moston.

The funeral will take place at St. Mary’s Church on Nuthurst Road, Moston, Manchester, followed by a service at Blackley Cemetery in Manchester.

Rest in peace, Corporal Donald McCaig. Your journey has been extraordinary, and your memory will forever be a source of inspiration and pride.

This article was last updated 27 minutes ago.
It was first published on 7 January 2025 and is subject to be updated from time to time. Please refresh or return to see the latest version.

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