Richard Lee McDonald

Richard Lee McDonald entered into this world on November 6, 1939, in Kansas City, Kansas. He was the only child born to the union of Emtee McDonald and Ruby (Gordon) McDonald, who both preceded him in death. In addition, his older daughter Stephanie McDonald, his maternal grandmother, Marie Gordon, maternal grandfather, Marcellus Gordon, and a paternal aunt, Palmer Dean, preceded him in death. His education began with KCK parochial school, Our Lady of Saint Rose and after transferring into the KCK District 500, he attended Dunbar and Grant Elementary School. Upon entering Northeast Junior High School, he quickly found his niche in running track, often training and competing with his cousin Harvey Shannon.

Just before time to enter Sumner High School, he and his mother moved to Chicago, Illinois; so that she could pursue training in nursing school. He entered Dunbar Vocational High School; training and graduating after completing a four year course in welding. Through the years, Richard has stayed close with his classmates in the Sumner High School of 1958.

After graduating from high school, he decided to enter the United States Marine Corps. He answered the call of the Marines: “We only need a few good men” “Follow Us” and “Semper Fi”. He was stationed at the El Toro (Santa Ana) California base. He also served in Hawaii and Okinawa. Here, he put into practice the characteristics instilled in him which included determination, being goal-oriented, loyalty, organization, and advance preparation. He trained and served as a telecommunication wireman, keeping radio contact as planes flew. He received good conduct medals and was honorably discharged as Lance Corporal (E-#3) after four years of active duty and two years in the Marine Corps Reserve.

His friends and military associates called him “Mac”. Richard truly lived out the credo that “Once a marine, always a marine”

After discharge, he had to make a decision to stay in Kansas City, Ks, where he met and fell in love with Sandraliece Minor, in 1965. They became proud parents of daughters, Stephanie and Shelly. Later, the family’s love spread when Stephanie gave birth to twin boys, Kellen Richard and Kaelen Reece, making Richard a grandfather.

He was employed with a position at Allis Chalmers as a welder. He moved to a position with Kansas City Power & Light and retired after thirty-two years of service as a Fuel Equipment Operator.

Among his many interests were gardening and photography. He loved planting different flowers and shrubs. Tropical fish was a great pastime. He especially loved computers and technology. Making cards with computer programs delighted him. Talking with classmates and neighbors about fishing, chess, sports and traveling made for great conversations. He loved fishing from his boat as well as from the banks.

His grandmother’s consistent faith set an example and took root during his formative years. Richard was baptized at the age of nine under the pastorate of Rev. E.T. Thornton. He was the oldest active male in the Pleasant Green Church family, with nearly sixty-seven years of membership and service. As he matured, he wanted a stronger relationship with the Lord. He seriously studied the word, prayed with other men in the church family, and shared the gospel with others. Some ministries that he was a part of were the Senior Usher Board, Sunday School, Iron Men, and the November Birthday Fellowship. However, being called to serve as a Deacon was a humbling experience for him. He was serious about his vows to the Lord and served wherever needed. He got joy from cutting the lawn, clearing the grounds, and planting flowers. In the winter, he was up watching the weather channel, loading his snow blower to get down to the church to help clear the sidewalks and steps; while most were still sleeping in warm beds. This is what he was committed to until his health began fail.

Deacon Richard Lee McDonald transitioned from Earth to Heaven on October 19, 2015, at Shawnee Mission Health Center.

He leaves to cherish his memories; his wife of fifty years, Sandraliece McDonald, of the home; daughter, Shelly L. McDonald, Grandview, MO; grandsons Kellen McDonald ,Independence, MO and Kaelen McDonald, Warrensburg, MO; brothers, John Bassett(Loretta) Ft. Mitchell, AL; Milton McDonald ,Houston, TX; and Bernard McDonald(Janice), Springfield, MO; maternal aunts, Elsie Kilgore, Los Angeles, CA. and Rose Johnson, of the city and a host of cousins, extended family, classmates, and friends. Truly Richard loved his family deeply and also placed his cousins, in-laws, and church members in the position of being like brothers and sisters.

Fond memories and condolences may be left at www.chapelhill-butler.com as burial arrangements are under the direction of Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, 701 North 94th Street in Kansas City, Kansas (913)334-3366.