John Patrick McDonald

John was born in 1945 in Rockville Center, NY, to Genevieve Ann Nieman and Patrick Eugene McDonald. The oldest of eight children, he grew up in Fairfax, Virginia. After graduation from Annandale High School, he earned a bachelor’s degree at Virginia Tech and a master’s degree in counseling at the University of South Florida. John pursued his career in education in Florida, serving for 35 years as a guidance counselor and teacher at Palmetto High School and King Middle School. He impacted hundreds of lives, as a mentor to many and father figure to some.

John was active in his community of Snead Island, serving for many years as president and board member of the association. His tireless work on local environmental issues contributed to the establishment of Emerson Point Park.

A man of faith, John was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; he served in many capacities, especially with youth. He also served as a Scoutmaster for many years; having achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, he was proud to help many boys, including his son and grandson, reach Eagle rank.

An avid sailor, John built his own sailboat. He also loved music. In retirement, he picked up the accordion again and mastered more than 450 songs, many of which he sang and played with his bandmates, “The Yacht Club Jammers.” He personalized his songs to delight children and loved ones. He loved exercise and never missed a day of running and riding his bike. He was also proud of his Irish roots. John was slow to anger and quick to laugh—always ready with a joke or a song to brighten someone’s day.

John was an extraordinary family man and a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He and his wife Jan, the love of his life, were married for 47 years. They met on the day Apollo landed on the moon 52 years ago. They loved travel and had been all over the world; their favorite trip was to the Galapagos Islands.

John leaves behind his wife Jan, his son Rory, his daughter-in-law Anne, and four grandchildren: Dane (17), Liam (15), Finnegan (13), and Hazel (10). He remained close with his siblings throughout his life, and also leaves his brothers Peter (Nancy) and Tony (Patti) and his sisters Maureen (Miles), Sheila, Celeste (Richard), and Denise (Robert), as well as numerous cousins,

nieces, and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Patrick and Genevieve, brother Brian, and great-niece Maeve. John will be missed by all who loved him.

A funeral service to celebrate John and his wonderful life will be held on October 7, 2021, at 7 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3400 Cortez Road, West Bradenton, FL 34210. Guests who would like to pay their respects may arrive at 6 p.m.