Howard Michael McDonald

(March 8, 1945 - September 26, 2025)

Our dearly loved Howard “Michael” McDonald passed away on September 26, 2025,

surrounded by his adored wife Karen Lancaster and family who loved and were loved by him.

There are many ways to define a person’s life but the best way to do for Michael is by the things

he loved. First and foremost of these is his wife Karen, who after living in sin together for 10

years, he finally convinced her to make an honest man out of him. They were married on August

17, 1997. As a result Michael gained a lifelong love, friend, travel companion, and a ready-built

family. They shared a love of many things including: Country music and dancing; Horses; Rodeo

and Gymkhana; and old westerns with John Wayne movies at the top of the list. Michael loved to

travel and his job with TSA allowed him to go many places and to bring Karen out to enjoy them

too. The two enjoyed visiting so many places in the country he loved. All were jealous of their

trips to Alaska, Hawaii, Washington D.C. and so many more. They loved to hit the road pulling a

trailer behind the Suburban, seeing America; beauty from the front seat. They visited friends and

family across the country, at times, showing up unannounced, much to the surprise of the

youngest son. The grin on Michael’s face was as big as the Grand Canyon, as if having pulled off

the biggest trick in history.

Michael was never shy in thanking Karen for giving him a home and a built-in family:

Kim And Steve Jones; Brian and Angie Lancaster; Aaron and Lisa Lancaster; and Todd

Lancaster. He also became Grandpa Michael to grandchildren and great grandchildren. Trevor

Jones was first, followed by Michael’s “favorite granddaughter” Kelsey (Lancaster) Hines, Derek

Hines later joined the crew, then Tristan Jones, Garrett Lancaster, and finally Chris and Patrick

Valenzuela. His Minions. Then came the great grandkids Brayden, Conner, Ryder and Emily

Hines. The laughter of Michael playing with the kids filled him with joy and the house with

happy noise. Star Trek models were built, sporting events attended, many movies seen together,

and graduations made special. The grandkids always knew they were loved and Michael was

loved back.

Michael joined the United States Navy in 1962 and was on active duty until 1966. He was

then in the Navy reserve until 1968 when he was honorably discharged. He served aboard the

USS Ticonderoga (CVA-14). He was awarded the National Defense Medal, Armed Forces

Expeditionary Medal (Viet Nam), and Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon for action in the Gulf of

Tonkin during 2-5 August 1964 . He achieved the rank of E-4, MM3. He served and loved these

United States with his whole heart. He had many jobs after his Navy service but again provided

an important service to the country he loved, when in October of 2002 he joined the

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and worked for TSA until March 2011, receiving

a plaque of gratitude and special recognition for his contribution to TSA. He was and always

remained a patriot for the United States of America and a hero to our family.

Michael loved orchids and grew some of the most beautiful flowers one could ever wish

to see. A tour of his orchids was offered to any and all who wished to see them. His collection

was spectacular. This Fact was confirmed by the San Diego County Orchid Society which

awarded him two blue ribbons for his orchids. He loved growing and caring for his plants and the

yard. He and Karen made a oasis in Spring Valley with every sort of plant. Attracting people,

birds, bees, butterflies, and even a few wayward kittens. His Silky cat was loved and spoiled as

much as humanly possible and it is believed by all they have been reunited.

Michael could be a man of contrast. The big, sometimes ornery man, who would always

offer help to those in need and was a rock of comfort for those he loved. The veteran who grew

orchids and loved animals. His gruffness could be melted by the arrival of the grand kids. He

loved Karen with all of his being and the exclamation of “Hey Girlfriend” was often heard. He

loved and was loved. He was a hero to this family. He will be sorely missed.

Burial and services will be announced in the near future.

In lieu of flowers please donate to your favorite charity in Michael’ name.