WILLIAM KENNETH MCDONALD

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of William Kenneth McDonald, beloved husband, brother, uncle, veteran and friend.  William passed away peacefully on May 20, 2025, at the age of 72, with his devoted wife, Michelle, and their four-legged companions, Riley & Harper, by his side.

Born on August 29, 1952, to the late William Eugene McDonald & Marjorie Holecek McDonald, William was a proud veteran who served honorably in the United States Air Force.  He was also preceded in death by his sister, Linda McDonald.  

William shared 33 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Michelle Walsh McDonald.  Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, mutual respect and deep companionship.  Their shared love for animals brought great joy to their home, where the warmth and comfort of their four-legged companions were ever-present. 

Earlier in life, William was married to Cheryl Danna, with whom he shared a meaningful chapter of his journey.

He is survived by his brothers, Michael McDonald (wife Beverly) and Phillip McDonald (wife Mary), who will forever cherish his strength, loyalty and good humor.  William was a proud and loving uncle to his nieces Stacy, Alicia, Morgan, Meagan & his nephew Shea. 

A man of deep convictions and curiosity, Willam had a lifelong passion for politics and was always ready for a thoughtful, spirited conversation.  He found solace in nature through fishing and found joy in maintaining aquariums as a dedicated tropical fish enthusiast.  He also had a green thumb and took great pride in caring for his plants, filling his home & garden with vibrant life.

One of William's most treasured memories was accompanying his father on WW2 Veterans Honor Flight Rochester Mission 30 in 2014.  William was a passionate supporter of the Honor Flight Organization and held tremendous respect for all who served.

He was also known for his warm hospitality, especially around an outdoor fire, where he loved to "hold court" with his closest friends and cousin Harry along with Pat, Becky, Scott & Faith.  These gatherings, filled with stories and laughter, were among his happiest times.

William was the kind of person who would drop everything to help a friend.  Generous, dependable, and deeply compassionate, he lived his life in service to others.

A celebration of William's life will be held at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in William's memory to the Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation at www.vbcf.org.

William Kenneth McDonald will be remembered for his love, loyalty, wisdom, humor and the steady light he brought into the lives of all who knew him.