Donald Paul McCarthy

Donald Paul McCarthy, age 64, of Ishpeming, MI died May 23, 2021 at Doctors Hospital of Augusta due to pancreatic cancer. Don is survived by his wife, Carol McCarthy née Aloi, and daughter Samantha Sinner née McCarthy.

A man of many talents, nicknames and titles, Don was a proud Yooper, 1st Cavalry Division Soldier, uncle, devoted husband, and perhaps his best title of all: Dad. Born September 27, 1956, to Robert McCarthy and Anne McCarthy née Difruscio. Don spent his early years growing up in Ishpeming, MI. A graduate from Ishpeming High School, Class of ‘74, he proudly reported to duty for the United States Army in 1974.

Affectionately known as Papa Don, he provided his family and friends entertaining stories of his global travels and adventurous road trips. Only those who knew him best were blessed with this veteran's stories of service in Panama. He quietly and courageously devoted his energy to the care of those he loved while instilling great leadership and empathetic qualities in his daughter.

Don moved from the Upper Peninsula to Juneau, Wisconsin in 1994. He was never shy to lend a hand, holding prominent positions in many fabricating companies. He later in life found his niche, retiring as an instructor for Fischer-Barton in Watertown, WI.

After 27 years of faithfulness, he married his life partner Carol on March 6, 2020. Shortly afterward, they moved to Augusta, Georgia, to join his daughter's family while they fought the good fight against his cancer.

Despite his health struggles, Papa Don was continually surrounded by love. His excitement in life, devoted love for his family, and love of any sweets never waned. He spent his days cuddling greyhounds, cracking jokes, throwing in a few pranks here and there, and creating lasting memories with those who adored him. He leaves behind his wife and an only daughter. His legacy of integrity, stubbornness, moral courage, and honor lives on through everyone who knew him.

Following Don’s wishes, an Irish Wake will be held at the Rainbow Bar on August 30th, at 1:00 PM in Ishpeming, MI. The family asks that you come with your best flannel, and stories to share of him.