Lawrence J. McDonald

Born on April 23, 1939, and raised in New York, Larry graduated from St John’s University with a degree in Chemistry.  Upon graduation, he was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the Marine Corps and proudly served for 30 years, retiring with the rank of Colonel.  During his career as a Marine pilot, he served in Vietnam, and his awards included the Distinguished Flying Cross, Legion of Merit (2 awards), Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal and Air Medal (1 individual and 24 strike flight).  

Larry was preceded in death by his wife Ruth, youngest daughter Christine and brother James.  He is survived by his sister Joan Castellan, brothers Ken McDonald (Denise) and Bruce McDonald (Beth); his son Kevin (Heidi), and his daughter Susan.  His grandchildren include LtCol Patrick McDonald (Jenna), Maxime Bertail, Theophile Bertail (Fanny), Emma McDonald, Abigail Sarette (Mandy), SSgt Benjamin McDonald, Celeste Bertail, Claire Bertail, Meghan McDonald, Tyler Williams, Sarah McDonald and Benjamin Neveux.  His great-grandchildren include Reagan McDonald, Jack McDonald and Kennedy Sarette.

The funeral service with full military honors will be held on October 30, 2025 at Arlington National Cemetery.