

(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.
FAMILY
Karen J Lancaster McDonaldspouse
Brian LancasterSon
Kim JonesDuaghter
Aaron LancasterSon
Todd W. LancasterSon
Trevor JonesGrandson
Tristan JonesGrandson
Kelsey HinesGranddaughter
Garrett LancasterGrandson
Emily Hinesgreat granddaughter
Braydon Rubiogreat grandson
Connor Hinesgreat grandson
Ryder Hinesgreat grandson
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