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Putnam County resident Doug MacCrae of Brewster died unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 17 at the age of 67, the Putnam County Sheriff's Office announced on Friday, April 19.
Known for his long career in law enforcement, MacCrae served with the Sheriff's Office as a Deputy and Sergeant for 25 years. He was also a Youth Officer and played a large role in developing Putnam's School Resource Program to protect schoolchildren.
Born in Yonkers in 1956, MacCrae first served as a Military Police Officer in the US Army between 1974 and 1977 before joining the Sheriff's Office.
After his retirement, he also spent time with the Lewisboro Police Department as a Lieutenant and the Putnam County SPCA, where he served as a Captain for nine years.
During his years with the SPCA, MacCrae worked toward animal welfare advocacy, which he held a passion for his entire life. He also held a love for adventure, which he fulfilled through a cross-country RV trip with his family, the Sheriff's Office said.
In addition to his career in law enforcement and his time traveling, MacCrae was a devoted family man who married his wife Mary in 1984. Together, they had two children, Sarah and Alex, who brought "immense joy and pride" to MacCrae's life, according to the Sheriff's Office.
"The legacy Doug leaves behind is one of integrity, courage, and love," the Sheriff's Office said in a social media post memorializing MacCrae, also continuing, "His life was a testament to the values he held dear, and his memory will continue to inspire those who knew him."
The Putnam County SPCA also released a statement: "Doug has been an important part of our ability to fulfill our mission, as a mentor, and most importantly ... a friend."
A service for MacCrae will be held on Wednesday, April 24 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Joseph J. Smith Funeral Home in Mahopac at 692 Route 6.
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