Evan "Scott" Maclagan passed away peacefully on February 13, 2025, at the age of 87, at Sunnybrook Hospital’s Veterans Centre, following the passing of his beloved wife Marilyn just six weeks earlier. Scott was born in Toronto, the third child to John Taylor Maclagan and Elsie Evelyn (Clark). Scott’s mother passed away when Scott was a young child and later his father moved the family to Beaverton, Ontario. Scott attended Orillia High School where he met fellow student and school pianist, Marilyn Horne. Shortly after graduation, Scott and Marilyn were married, becoming inseparable partners for 67 years.
Scott was the cherished father of John (Elaine) and Steven (Maral), a devoted grandfather to Laura (Darren), Elizabeth, Chloe, and Natalie, and a loving great-grandfather to Charlotte. Scott will be deeply missed by the Todd, Rayfield and Stickland families. He was predeceased by his older brother, Murray, and younger sister, Ruth.
A proud veteran, Scott served as a navigator in the Royal Canadian Air Force on Avro CF-100 interceptor jets during the Cold War. He anticipated being among the elite few aircrews to fly the Avro Arrow had the program not been tragically canceled. Though the Arrow never went into full production, Scott carried the spirit of innovation and precision into his post-military career, where he became a highly respected Employee Benefits and Insurance consultant. Over the decades, he made his mark at Canada Revenue Toronto, William M. Mercer, Marsh and McLennan and later in private practice, earning the trust of colleagues and clients alike with his expertise and integrity.
Scott's remarkable experiences and insights into the Cold War era were captured in his memoir, Cold War Over Canada, published in 2023 by James Lorimer & Company Ltd. Publishers. His book offers a unique perspective on a critical period in Canadian military history and stands as a testament to his knowledge and contributions to the field.
In his later years, Scott was a pillar of strength and resilience, facing life’s challenges with the same steady resolve that defined him throughout his life. His sharp mind, keen sense of humor, and deep devotion to his family will be dearly missed but forever remembered.
In accordance with Scott’s and Marilyn’s wishes, there will be a combined private burial and family gathering in the spring at Knox Cemetery.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Sunnybrook’s Veteran’s Palliative Unit for their exceptional care and support
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in memory of Scott be directed to "The Palliative Care Unit," in care of The Sunnybrook Foundation, 2075 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M4N 3M5.
May Scott rest in peace, reunited with Marilyn, his steadfast co-pilot in life, and be forever remembered for his courage, wisdom, and generosity.
Dorothy and Earl Thomson
Posted on: Tuesday, April 22, 2025We are former neighbours of Scott and Marilyn from their time spent on Livingstone Street.
We tried to phone Scott today to wish him a Happy Birthday only to learn of their passing.
May they rest in peace and may their memories be a blessing.
Earl and Dorothy Thomson