Theodore Edward Donaldson, aged 91, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2025. Born on September 6, 1933, in Baton Rouge, Theodore attended Sacred Heart of Jesus Elementary School and graduated from Catholic High School in 1951. He went on to earn his degree from LSU in 1961.
Theodore is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Marie Giannobile Donaldson; his son Danny (Nicoline) Donaldson; daughters Marybeth (Lee) West, Dina (Carlos) Molina, and Amy (Tom) Wintz. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren: Kristen (Adam) Wilcox, Alex (Samantha) West, Emily West, Clay and Holland Donaldson, Maria Claire Molina, Landra Fiebig, and Hayden Wintz, as well as seven great-grandchildren. Additionally, he leaves behind his sister Mary "Cissy" Poret and brothers David, Thomas, and Patrick Donaldson.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Landreaux "Jack" and Cecelia Ruhl Donaldson, and his brothers Landreaux "Laddie", John "Jackie," Ronald "Ronnie," and Richard.
A devoted parishioner of Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church, Theodore served on the Parish Council, Long-Range Planning Committee, Building Committee, was a Lector for Holy Mass, a member of the Holy Name Society, and served as a director of the Adoration Chapel. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 4030.
Professionally, Theodore was an accomplished electrical engineer and served in the United States Air Force. He had a deep love for LSU sports and enjoyed deer hunting and fishing with his extensive family and friends at the South Bayou Des Glaises Hunting Club. Known for his quiet and gentle nature, Theodore will be greatly missed. May he rest in God's peace.
The family extends special thanks to sitters Angel Cottrell and Miki Rowe, the staff of St. Joseph's Carpenter House Hospice, particularly Deacon Mike Chiappetta.
Visitation will be held at Rabenhorst East Funeral Home, 11000 Florida Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70815 on Thursday, March 20, 2025, from 5:00-8:00 pm. Visitation will continue at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church, 445 Marquette Ave. Baton Rouge, LA 70806 at 1:00 pm on Friday, March 21, 2025, until the Mass of Christian Burial at 2:30 pm interment to follow at Resthaven Memorial Gardens, 11817 Jefferson Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA 70816.
