John R. McDonald, 88, of Middletown, passed away March 2, 2024. John was born June 23, 1935, in Brooklyn to the late John and Catherine McDonald.
John was a social man who found true happiness in the company of friends and family. He was raised in Brooklyn and enlisted in the Navy at the age of 18. After serving in the Navy as a Petty Officer 3rd Class on the Sherman Midway Aircraft Carrier, John returned home to the States and settled in Middletown where he worked as an appliance technician at Sears for 30 years.
John was a devout Catholic and a communicant of St. Mary Mother of God Parish in Middletown, where he sang in the choir and played the piano at various Knights of Columbus functions. He was a member of the VFW Post 2179 in Port Monmouth and the American Legion in Leonardo, where he formed lasting friendships.
John enjoyed Happy Hour at Ader’s Tavern and could often be found with a cold beer in his hand and a smile on his face. One of his favorite holidays to celebrate was St. Patrick’s Day.
John will always be remembered as a loving husband to his late wife Carol McDonald, a caring father to his three daughters, Colleen (Kevin) Geiger, Corrine (Glenn) Ras and Christine (Jack) Sitty, a cherished grandfather to eight grandchildren, dear brother of Thomas McDonald, and a loyal friend to many. His impact on the lives of those who knew him will never be forgotten.
He was predeceased by his three sisters, Catherine Milheim, Mildred Price and Joan Miller.
Friends and family were invited to pay their respects at Scott & Kedz Home for Funerals in Belford March 7. A Mass of Christian Burial was held March 8 at St. Catherine’s Church in Middletown, followed by a private cremation.
In lieu of flowers, donations to a veterans’ charity of your choice in John’s memory are appreciated.
His legacy of love, music and friendship will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
The article originally appeared in the March 21 – 27, 2024 print edition of The Two River Times.
