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Patrick McDonald Obituary

McDonald, Patrick
53, of Peoria, AZ passed away on October 7, 2012. Originally from Toledo, Ohio, Patrick was born to Gerald and Mary McDonald and later moved to Peoria, AZ in 1980 where he was an accomplished musician touching the lives of many through his musical talents. He held a Bachelors of Education from Grand Canyon University and Masters of Music from Northern Arizona University. He played as the music director for several Catholic churches throughout the Valley as well as a keyboardist in many blues bands. Survived by his son Shaun McDonald and daughter Maureen Dunlevy (Ryan) and grandchildren Conor & Izola Dunlevy. Also survived by his brother, Dennis McDonald of Ohio. A private service has been held. Special thanks to Hospice of the Valley for their support and dedication to their patients. Contributions can be made toward funeral costs at any BBVA Compass location under the estate of Patrick McDonald, with Maureen Dunlevy listed as his representative of estate.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Arizona Republic on Oct. 26, 2012.

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Mary Lopez

December 21, 2013

I volunteered at St. Paul's when Pat was there; we were on the liturgy committee and always cracking jokes. That last Advent he was there, I was in the church decorating for Christmas and Pat was in there getting ready for a rehearsal. I told him we were missing the Charlie Brown Christmas special that night and he started playing "Christmas Time is Here" so hauntingly beautiful. He played while I decorated. Every time I hear that song now I remember Pat and his kindness to me and I say a prayer. Never forgotten.

Shaun

March 15, 2013

I miss you more each day, Dad. I know you are laughing with me when I hear a funny joke. I know you are guiding my ears when I listen to a great song. I know God's choir is greater with you helping. Thank you for holding my hand as a child and empowering me as an adult. "What are you up to?"

Adam Clark

November 22, 2012

Pat was my good friend since 2001. We were sidemen on a jazz gig back then when we met and then he recommended me to audition with the Honeyboy. I worked with that band steadily and this is where I learned to play the blues. I am so proud to have made an album with them and I will never forget all the shows, trips to the lake in Pat's van to perform and our trip to memphis to represent phx in the international blues showdown. Pat paid for me to get into Elvis's house when we were there. Pat was always supportive of the music %110 and is the definition of paying dues for the cause. He led by example and I learned much from him just by watching what he did before and after shows. He used to tell me "just payin my dues man." He always went above and beyond EVERY single time. Pat is the reason why I had the honor to be a Smokehouse Player! Thanks Pat. Now it's time for me to keep "payin my dues" to the music. I recently moved to southern Cali and last night I dedicated my first blues gig here to Sal and Pat. Them good ol boys who taught me how to play the blues. Save a seat for me fellas. I'll be Comin Home soon to sit in on a tune in the sky. Adam Clark

Caffarello Family

November 22, 2012

Remembering Pat today and very grateful that he was in our brother's life. May they continue to create music and provide peace and comfort for family and friends this Thanksgiving and always.

Pat you will be missed. We are thankful to have your music to play/share forever. You will be remembered through song and spirit. May this candle represent the light you will continue to shine down upon your loved ones.

Love,
The Caffarello Family

November 21, 2012

To the Family of Pat McDonald
I was stunned to hear about Pat's death. I will keep him and the family in Prayer. He was a great music person especially when he worked with me at St. Louis the King Parish. May the Lord continue to be with you as you grieve for him. God Bless! Fr. John

Connie Caffarello

November 13, 2012

Pat was a good friend and bandmate of my brother Sam (Honeyboy Dupree). They performed and made music together for over 10 years. Pat was extremely talented and kind. He wrote in my brother's Legacy Guest Book asking Sam to "keep a spot open for a keyboard player... till we meet again." I spoke with Pat a few times since then and he always provided comfort. I never thought he would be joining the band in the sky so soon.

On behalf of the Caffarello family, I like to offer our profound sympathy. Pat will be missed. May his family and friends find comfort in knowing that he will be greeted by his good friend, Sam.

Mary Pat McDonald

November 10, 2012

To the friends that really knew our family, I am happy to say that Pat and I made our amends to each other and enjoyed many family get togethers with our children and grandchildren. We were all happy to have him with us in those final days at my house. Pat enjoyed the grandchildren so much. As in loss, we are all feeling our own special pain with our memories.

Linda Ledford

November 1, 2012

Oh My Friend - You forever changed my life all those years ago. There are so many memories and laughs and love. We will miss you and will never look at a pink flamingo or hum a Python tune without thinking of you. Rest in Peace.

Anita Benavidez

November 1, 2012

It was an honor to play with Pat for his last few gigs. We were all just starting to click. He paid it all forward with his musical ministries for the church. God gave him the best gig of all. Blessing to his family and friends. RIP, Pat.

October 31, 2012

Pat will be truly missed as a friend and as a great musician.

Frankie B.

Donna Magee

October 27, 2012

Pat will always be remembered for his musical talents. I'll never forget the time he, along with Mary Pat, sang and played the piano for the All Saints' Day Mass at St. Louis the King when Maureen was in first grade. His music helped many people on their faith journey. He is at rest now with the Lord in heaven. May that bring comfort to his family and friends.

Sister Jean Perry

October 27, 2012

Dear Maureen, Shaun, and family,

The whole St. Louis the King family offers you prayerful support as we learned of Pat's death. His gift of music was shared with us for many years. Blessings.
Sister Jean Perry

Maureen

October 26, 2012

I love you Dad...

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