W. Marvin Mackie, DVM, a dedicated veterinarian renowned for his compassion and commitment to animal welfare, passed away in his home in San Pedro on October 10, 2023, following a brief battle with ESBL E. Coli. He was surrounded by his loving wife, Phyllis Mackie, and will be deeply missed by family, friends, and the veterinary community worldwide.
Dr. Mackie’s legacy is marked by his significant contributions to the reduction of unwanted pets in the Los Angeles area. After graduating from Washington State University, he practiced in clinics across Chicago and San Diego before settling in Los Angeles. There, he became acutely aware of the challenges posed by the high number of homeless animals and the urgent need for affordable spay/neuter services.
A Lifelong Commitment to Animal Welfare
In collaboration with his colleague, Phil Weida, DVM, Dr. Mackie co-founded four low-cost spay/neuter clinics in and around Los Angeles. His innovative approach and tireless advocacy played a crucial role in decreasing the population of unwanted pets. He developed a surgical technique that allowed for spaying and neutering animals as young as eight weeks old. His expertise led him to travel across the United States, as well as to Mexico and Japan, where he taught this method to fellow veterinarians.
Dr. Mackie’s impact extended beyond the operating room. He was known for his kindness, infectious spirit, and dedication to animal welfare, qualities that endeared him to many in the veterinary community. His sister, Onah Dee, along with his nieces, Sheila and Corinne, and nephews, Jonathan and Chris, will cherish his memory. Friends and colleagues remember him for his unwavering passion for animals and his commitment to improving their lives.
A Life Filled with Adventure
Outside of his professional life, Dr. Mackie and Phyllis shared a love for travel, exploring numerous countries by land, sea, and air. He often expressed his gratitude for life, famously stating, “…even if I go tomorrow, it’s been a great ride!” This perspective on life and adventure resonated with those who knew him.
In honor of Dr. Mackie’s dedication to animals, his family encourages those wishing to pay tribute to consider making a donation to their favorite animal rescue organization. His contributions to veterinary medicine and animal welfare will not be forgotten, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of veterinarians committed to the welfare of animals.
