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Patrick McDonald Obituary

McDONALD


Patrick, Highway Patrol Officer with the Philadelphia Police Department, tragically in the line of duty on September 23, 2008 at the age of 30. Beloved son of Lawrence and Patricia McDonald (nee Gillin). Loving brother of Megan McDonald and the late Michael McDonald. Grandson of the late James and Ann McDonald, and the late George and Marion Gillin. Boyfriend of Joanne Heary. Patrick lived the life of a warrior, filled with pride and discipline. Everything he did reflected his intensity and determination to achieve excellence. Patrick was a tremendous athlete who played football for the Liberty Bell Patriots, Little Quakers all-star team, Archbishop Ryan High School (where he achieved All-Catholic honors), and the Philadelphia Police and Fire Department's Blue Flame football team. Patrick graduated from Archbishop Ryan High School in 1996. He joined the Philadelphia Police Department in January 2000 and was assigned to the 25th police district where his record of excellent service culminated in his appointment to the elite Highway Patrol Unit in 2004. During that time, Patrick completed night courses and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from St. Joseph's University.

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Published by Philadelphia Inquirer/Philadelphia Daily News from Sep. 26 to Sep. 29, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Patrick McDonald

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Not sure what to say?





Dwan Love

September 13, 2010

Pat, I did not know you personally but that Tuesday morning on September 23, 2008 I remember your voice when you came over the air letting me know that you were in North Central (22nd district)and the events that followed. Needless to say, that day changed my life and everyone who loved and cared about you forever. I just wanted to thank you for your service to the city of Philadelphia. Rest In Peace.

April 9, 2010

PAT, Your Dad is going to be with you now,but while you are up there and we are left here We will watch over your mom. As you were there in our hour of need and every day after We will be there for you and yours till we all meet again. YOU GAVE ME STRENGTH AND HOPE WHEN I NEEDED IT MOST!! I will try to do the same for you. We miss you so much at Christmas but you are always with us in our hearts. R.I.P LUV YA MRS THIERRY

Bill Heron

September 23, 2009

I am very sad sitting here thinking about this tragic day one year ago. Pat was one of a kind and missed dearly. I am waiting to get in the Philadelphia Police Academy and one day soon work the hard streets of Philly just like Sgt. Patrick McDonald, a true hero!

September 23, 2009

As I drove my daughter to school today and passed by Patrick's house, we remember. I said,"Patrick went to Heaven one year ago today", my daughter said,"Mom, I can't believe the city made someone we know a Saint!" I smiled and said, the city made him a Sgt. She said,"Mom dont you remember they promoted him to St.Patrick McDonald" I said, well he is very much like one now, we can pray to him anytime to watch over us! She said,"Mom so it's like he still has to work in Heaven". We will continue to pray to you,Patrick, to watch over us all.

September 23, 2009

One year has passed since you left, Pat. You have not been forgotten. On this day, I hope everyone remembers what was lost, how precious life and family is and I hope that everyone performs one act of kindness in your memory. I will never forget this day, Pat. You have no idea how much your death has effected and changed my life.

Megan

Tom Riddle

February 24, 2009

First I would like to express myr deepest sympathy to the McDonald family for your loss.
I personally didn't know Pat but knew his mother from way back in the 60's when we were teenagers
raised in the Tacony section of the city.

I'm sure if Pat could speak He would say;
"Death is only a temporary separation and in it I say to all my love ones, family, friends and citizens of the City of Brotherly Love. We will all meet again soon, until then remember I have loved you all.
Keep in your hearts and memories a special place for all of us, The Brothers and Sister, Angels of Blue.
And never forget the sacrifice we made out of our love for you."

Written with a painful heart

February 18, 2009

Pat,
We think about you every day. The baby is a Moose now, he's huge, hopefully going to be an offensive tackle!!!!!! Sunday Fundays this summer aren't going to be the same without you. Miss you terribly

The Knowles Family

February 17, 2009

To the family and friends of Officer McDonald~ This past friday we lost another hero in blue. My family would like to extend our deepest condolences to you, every time we lose another officer, you're reminded of your loss. Our hearts break for you. We want to thank Patrick for protecting and serving the people of this city, he will always be one of our heros. We're so sorry for your loss, you are in our thoughts and prayers.

January 26, 2009

Hey Pat,
Just wanted you to know that i am thinking of you, as i am sure you already know. It is still really hard, wish you were still around...love ya

Lorraine+Michael Thierry

January 17, 2009

Pat ,we think of you everyday. I hope you and Michael are together, as I am sure he knows what a true and good friend you were. Your support and thoughtfulness at trial will be in our hearts forever. WE LOVE AND MISS YOU!!! Christmas was just not the same without you guys, but all your friends were here in both your honors. You are deeply missed. I KNOW YOU WERE SO HAPPY FOR YOUR SHIFT CHANGE BECAUSE OF YOUR LOVE FOR FOOTBALL!!!!( having Monday off) so we will all watch this playoff together, because you will be with us in our hearts.Love and miss you, R.I.P. ,

Beth A Philly Friend

December 28, 2008

Thinking and remembering the family especially at this time of year! May God give you strength to find peace and happiness....

Kathy & Joe Mandell

December 20, 2008

Pat, Larry and Megan,
This holiday season sure isn't a happy one for sure. Rest assured that you're in our hearts each and everyday throughout the holidays. So sad. We pray you find peace again someday. Patrick & Michael know that peace.

Jeff Lappe

December 8, 2008

Pat...
i know u already know this but were in the championship on saturday bro and there is no way were leaving that field without it. Were bringin it home for you Soldier and your definitely gettin another hoodie, a Morrell one! so send us down a blessing kid, your our HERO Soldier!!
Biff

tim mclaughlin

December 7, 2008

Pat just been thinking about you alot recently.You are truly missed.God Bless You!

J. Ayala

December 5, 2008

Your are a true hero Pat. May God bless you and your family. All across the country we mourn the loss of a fellow brother. IPD Officer

family of an officer

November 25, 2008

And may the road rise to meet you
May the wind always be at your back,
The rain fall softly on your fields
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

Barbara Pisano

November 8, 2008

Dear Officer Pat
It is with sadness that I write this,No one should have a guest book to write in till they are at least 80.My son Nicky was murdered March 31,2008 he was 25 and he is buried not far from you at Resurrection cemetary.I only know this because as I was visiting him several weeks ago there were more motorcycles there than one could count.What a beautiful tribute to you and to your family.I didn't know you but I too went to Archbishop Ryan and you seemed like a beautiful person who will be missed by many.Thank you for a job well done and God Bless your girlfriend and family for sharing you with us.Tell Nicky I said Hello again when you cross paths up above.He too is a very missed special person,you"d like him.With grateful hearts Barb Pisano and family

Vivian Baldwin

November 6, 2008

Pat R.I.P. and you and my cousin are raising cane up there keep Philly winning.....I know you two are behind all the good going on......

Sgt. Frank

November 2, 2008

Hey Pat, What did you think seeing all the wheels back on the CBP field after the worlds series game. I know you would have been one of them. But for some strange reason I felt your presence was there and that you were indeed one of them. I will always remember you and remember you in my prayers.

chris mills

October 31, 2008

thinking of you
thanks for helping our philles
happy halloween

patsy

October 30, 2008

Hay Pat,
Thanks for helping those PHILLIES...

Erick McCrady

October 29, 2008

I am deeply saddened to see that another one of our own has fallen. My prayers go to the family and I know his bravery will carry on through the loved ones he left behind. God bless his family God blessed Pat,therefore he is with him now.
Condolences from the USC Police Dept.

victor czapor

October 28, 2008

I am sorry to hear of the officer who
is killed in the line of duty for our citizens. It is like a veteran for our country who is also killed securing our freedom. My son is one of those officers who risks his life every day. I can only hope and pray that my son and all of our police officers are blessed by Our Lord to keep them safe. May Patrick rest in peace. A Life taken too soon.

DONNA RAHILL

October 27, 2008

GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY AND KEEP PATRICK CLOSE TO HIS HEART AS WE WILL. D.R.

Diane Pisaturo-Ware '94

October 26, 2008

Dear McDonald family, I did have the pleasure of knowing Pat as I was friends with Megan during highschool. It is so hard to lose someone you love and care about, and thinking the pain will never end, The pain never goes away for the loss of someone so special, it just becomes easier to live with. My fondest and funniest memory was one Christmas night and we were all in Megan's bedroom and Pat came in trying to act like a tough guy he was showing us his muscles and then he actually kissed his biceps, I actually have that picture because he was making us laugh. Time went on and people lose touch, there are always people you remember in your own way. When I heard of his passing the first thing I thought of was the night and that picture. I took the picture out and my kids were so impressed that my oldest son took that picture to school the next day to show his friends, he came home and said to me mom I can't believe you knew a true hero. My thoughts and prayers are with you know and everyday.

Joseph P Kurtz

October 26, 2008

Dear McDonald Family,
I was with Pat in the Police Academy and he was a Great Friend,Athlete,and Police Officer. I remeber all my class mates from that time but unfortunatley I didn't follow through like Pat and the Others.He will never be Forgotten and my Prayers are with you and all those whose Life He Touched and he will always be a True Hero.

Brian Wong

October 26, 2008

Your grief may ebb and flow. It has been said that each of us has this well deep inside of us that can be filled to the brim with grief. Every time we cry, we empty out some of the well. But the well fills again. The level of sorrow in your well may lessen as time passes, but it will never run dry. There will always be birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and those days when the well seems to fill to its brim again. Allow yourself time to remember and mourn. It is part of your healing. Grief is a continuing journey.

GINA GUYON

October 25, 2008

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Bill Garvey

October 23, 2008

God Bless you and your family. I will always pray in your memory.

Rich Weiser, Rich's Towing

October 22, 2008

I was working in the 25th District when I first met Pat and he was new to the 25th, Pat enjoyed being a cop and it showed.
To Pat who I know is watching down on us now, I must say that I am sorry to see you go, your laughs, your jokes and your pleasant outlook on life will be missed, but most of all I will miss my friend.
To my friend I say good bye with out a choice.
I didn?t want you to go; you didn?t deserve to die like this.
Thank you for all you done as a person, as a cop, as a friend to so many people.
You will be safe now as I know God has taken you under his wing.
May you now rest in peace my friend; I will never forget what you said.

Rich Weiser, Rich?s Towing

KATHY WHITE

October 20, 2008

I was in N.J. last week (10-11 thru 10-18) and my Brother-in-Law and I participated in the bike run for Pat. It was an honor to be a part of it. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. My son is a police officer here in Phoenix and I can't begin to imagine what you are going through. I will pray for you to have strength to get through the coming days and months. GOD BLESS

Michael Hooten

October 19, 2008

I attended the Dallas Defenders football game today and they had a moment of silence in memory and honor of Officer Patrick McDonald. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
God bless the family and friends.

Lorraine Thierry

October 18, 2008

Pat, I THINK OF YOU EVERY DAY. I will cherish your beautiful letter always. R.I.P.

DOLORES SCHNITZEL

October 15, 2008

DEAREST MC DONALD FAMILY MY LOVE CONCERN AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU,THERE ARE NO WORDS TO EXPRESS WHAT IS IN MY HEART TO LARRY,MEGAN AND ESPECIALLY MY DEAREST FRIEND PAT.

james smith

October 15, 2008

thank you for all that you have done for the city of philadelphia may you rest in peace and god bless your family

thank you again

Phillip Wilbur

October 15, 2008

To the McDonald family I'am sorry to hear of Patrick's passing. I did not know Patrick personally, I'am a Paramedic/Firefighter here in Atlanta Ga. and heard of this through the Public saftey football team here in Atlanta Ga. that I play for. I have often thought about the life that I have led and the life that I will lead in the future many times when I have been alone. I have wondered if I have pleased the lord, and what I will have to tell him when the day comes that I stand before him and he ask's me if I'am deserving of stepping through those gates. I know that the Lord allows us to make choices between good and evil, how to live our life's, etc... In reading some of the entries here of the people that knew Patrick I think he exemplified what the Lord want's us to be. As a parent also while reading these entries I thought to myself WOW his parent's must be so proud of him, it sounds like Patrick was great officer and man of intergity. When the day comes that I have to answer that question I think that if I live up to half the man that Patrick is I'll be OK.

October 14, 2008

What a tribute to this fallen angel.
Good Night sweet Prince....parting is such sweet sorrow.

Rosemary

October 13, 2008

May God bless you for always in Heaven. And may God please comfort your family here.

Sgt. Frank Spires

October 11, 2008

Hey Pat,
Congradulations on your promotion to sergeant, I knew you were in the room yesterday for the cermony. You indeed studied hard and I remember you getting ready for the orals, what a character you are. You sure made me laught. You will always be in our thoughts and prayers

lee white

October 10, 2008

I just express my families wishes to your family. Please know that you are not alone. We as a city morn with you.

cass&tom depasquale

October 9, 2008

Our deepest condolences. 1st. we were residents of morrell pk. Christ The king & Ryan. My husband was on the force for 23 yrs. there were 3 shootings in 1986, my husband is the only survivor.Patrick was an outstanding individual & you have to be proud. His legacy, will live on. Our prayers will continue for Patrick, as well as the family. God bless you

David A. Burgoyne

October 9, 2008

Please accept my prayers.....

Carmen Vuotto

October 9, 2008

TO THE MC DONALD FAMILY,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. The spirit of Patrick will live on forever through the grace of GOD.

The Carmen Vuotto Family

Susan Pennypacker

October 7, 2008

Dear Patsy,Larry and Megan,

I was unable to attend the viewing, however, we were at the Mass. There are no words from me that will console you. I am sure that you will be reading this guest book list forever. So, when you finally get to this-- the candles I am lighting will still be glowing each week at my church. God will bless you and keep you in his care. Patrick and Michael can continue to watch and strengthen you ; until you are together . I pray for Megan, she has found her direction and still needs guidence. ( daughters ?) But God left you here to complete his plan for you. I am not as close to you as most of your friends, however, it is apparent that you are blessed with a warm,wonderful family as well as an extended family too large to mention. This will help you ( I know ) and when I do see you ( wherever!) we will laugh and talk and dance but we will never forget your pain --- we will hold you up as long as you need us . Please believe . Love Miss Susan

genine stieff

October 6, 2008

To The Mcdonald Family Our deepest sympathy to your family. We thank patrick for his faithful service and brave sacrifice. We didn't know him personally but know we are praying for you. I was at the service at the cemetery out of respect for your son. God bless.

Marie

October 6, 2008

God Bless you Patrick and thank you for doing a great job.

joyce brady

October 6, 2008

my prayers are with you..may you rest in peace.. God bless you.
you truly are an angel...

Katie Ferry

October 6, 2008

I would like to send my condolences to Sgt. McDonald’s family, to his girlfriend Joanne and to everyone in the PPD for the loss of yet another hero. I have a lot of friends and some family members that are police officers and my heart is broken for all of them as well as you. I also have a few friends and family members on the Blue Flame Football Team for which Pat played. I had the pleasure of meeting Pat and his girlfriend and I also remember seeing them at games and events for the Blue Flame. They obviously are the best of the best! I heard Joanne’s interview on the news and she said that Pat was a soldier and always will be. I hope the words in this poem touch her heart the way they have touched mine. May God bless all of you.

IT IS THE SOLDIER
It is the Soldier, not the minister
Who has given us freedom of religion.

It is the Soldier, not the reporter
Who has given us freedom of the press.

It is the Soldier, not the poet
Who has given us freedom of speech.

It is the Soldier, not the campus organizer
Who has given us freedom to protest.

It is the Soldier, not the lawyer
Who has given us the right to a fair trial.

It is the Soldier, not the politician
Who has given us the right to vote.

It is the Soldier who salutes the flag,
Who serves beneath the flag,
And whose coffin is draped by the flag,
Who allows the protester to burn the flag.

Tom C.

October 6, 2008

May the Lord draw you to Himself and hold you forever in His loving embrace.

John & Peggy Kapral

October 6, 2008

To the McDonald Family;
We were so sorry to hear of this senseless tragedy.
Patrick was a true hero. We will keep you in our prayers.

Elizabeth Potemski

October 5, 2008

To the family of Officer McDonald: My deepest condolences on yet another fine Officer lost in our great city. A little quote from one of my favorite Psalms (23) - Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I shall fear no evil for Thou art with me. Rest assured that God was with you Patrick in your very short life and he will be with you in heaven along with your fallen officers/brothers/friends. Rest in Peace and Thanks!!

Officer, Metropolitan Police Department

October 5, 2008

I just wanted to say the Philadelphia Police Department did a outstanding job on tuesday in their final salute to our fallen brother SGT. Patrick McDonald. It was an honor for me to come back home to Philadelphia to honor Pat, and pay my respect to him for all he did for the city of Philadelphia. All the Philly Officers I spoke to were so polite, and so many officers said thank you to me for coming up and attending, and I want to say it was my honor, and I am so glad I did. Kudos to my former boss Commissioner Ramsey on promoting Pat to Sargeant, because he deserved it. To my brothers and sisters on the Philadelphia Police Department, keep your heads up, and continue doing the wonderful job you are doing. You guys have the toughest job in the world and I respect you all very much. Again thank you all for how welcomed you made everyone feel who attended Sgt. McDonalds Funeral. Pat I wish I could have known you. You were one hell of a Police Officer.

mary jane lynch

October 4, 2008

To the McDonald Family,
My prayers go out to all of
you at this most devasting time.
May God watch over and be with you. Sincerely,Mary Jane Lynch

Marie Broccardi

October 4, 2008

As a neighbor, just a few doors down from Officer Mcdonald, I just wanted to take the time to send my condolences to the Mcdonald family. Though I never personally met Officer Mcdonald, it was always comforting to know that there are so many police officers living just doors away from me. My Grandson, David, works for the Bensalem Police Department. There isn't a day that goes by, that our family doesn't worry about him. All of the people that have dedicated their lives to police work have a special place in Heaven waiting for them. I'm sure that Patrick took the direct route to Heaven. The neighborhood will miss his presence, but his memory will live on.

The Bonner Family

October 4, 2008

To The McDonald Family, Joanne Heary and All of Pat's Friends and Brothers and Sisters in Blue -- Losing such a gifted, dedicated and wonderful young man in the prime of his life represents a truly devastating loss for all of you as well as for the City of Philadelphia. No one can replace Patrick. We hope you receive consolation in knowing that Pat was truly loved and will be forever missed by all who knew him personally as well as those life was enhanced because of his exemplary life and service to the City of Philadelphia. We pray that his sacrifice will not have been in vain and that his death will serve as a rallying point for all members of the community to continue his work to make our city safer and more secure for everyone and that he will be remembered as an outstanding role model for young people and police officers in the years to come.

Dottie Sinese (Flynn & O'Hara's)

October 4, 2008

You have my deepest sympathy. My prayers are with your family.

647 yyyy

October 4, 2008

bird suplly levitown pa

Anna Pedano

October 3, 2008

To the McDonald Family: My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Sgt.Patrick McDonald is in Heaven and he will always be watching over his family. We thank him for his precious time he gave here on earth to protect us. My nephew is a Phila.Police Officer. My prayers are with them everyday. God Bless!

Clifton Macer

October 3, 2008

On behalf of the DCGenerals Football team, our hearts are very heavy and I would like to offer my condolences to the family of Officer McDonald. He was a great competitor and wonderful person. He will be greatly missed.

Clifton F. Macer
President
DCGenerals Football

rebecca caruso

October 3, 2008

"There are no words that can be said to ease your pain. Please know that you are in the prayers of many and will continue to be. I pray that God watches over you and your family and that Patrick will rest in eternal peace. Thank you for sharing your son with the City of Philadelphia. God Bless you! "

Joanne Lawn

October 3, 2008

My dear McDonald Family, You are in my heart and prayers. As a mother of a police officer, I hope that I will never be asked to make this supreme sacrifice. God bless and keep you during these very difficult days.

Tersea scicchitano

October 2, 2008

To SGT. McDonald's loved ones,
I didnt know him but Its sad to hear about officers jus passing away in line of duty, especiaLly with crazy stuff going on today, but im giving my condolences to all that miss and love you..... Rest in peace- Another new angel...!

Ej

October 2, 2008

Words can not express my sympathy for the family, immediate and all the extended brothers and sisters in blue, and of course Joanne. We all lost a great man and a great cop on that horrible day, the whole ciy lost. Hey Pat Congrats on the promotion to Sargent......we all know you deserved it. Godspeed!!

Kathy (Parkwood)

October 2, 2008

To SGT. McDonald's loved ones,

I am so sorry for your loss. I hope you can remember all the wonderful times you had with Patrick, and over time they make the bad go away. This is a poem that helped my family with my mom's sudden death last summer-
"I have not turned my back on you, so there is no need to cry, I am watching you from Heaven, Just beyond the morning sky; I have seen you almost fall apart, When you could barely stand, I asked the Lord to comfort you, And I watched him take your hand. He told me you were in more pain, Than I could ever be, He wiped his eyes and swallowed hard, Then gave your hand to me; Although you may not feel my touch; Or see me by your side, I've whispered that I love you, While I wiped each tear you cried."

Rest in Peace our Hero Sgt McDonald!

Jeanne

October 2, 2008

Mr. & Mrs. MCDonald & Family

I am so sorry for your loss. I didn't know Patrick although he lived around the corner. If you have faith, the Good Book says he's in a better place, but I know you would prefer to have him here with you., for this my heart aches for you. In your sorrow, please also be proud, you have raised a wonderful young man and his short life has touched so many. I know it has touched mine. God Bless you & your family, you are in my thoughts & prayers.

A Mother of another one of Philly's finest.

Archbishop Ryan Alum. Class of 1988

October 2, 2008

To The McDonald Family and Joanne,

My heart goes out to all of you,words of thanks are not enough for this city to say to your son and friend.Know that we as a community are saying many many prayers for you in this terrible time.I hope with each passing day God will give you more strenghth to let you see hope in your future.

Jennifer Marcellino

October 2, 2008

"Our Fallen Brother"
As I held him close, I began to cry
Wondering and hoping our friend would never die
I could see the whites of his eyes, as he held me tight
The wind whisked through his hair, as we saw the light

He cried no more as we fell to the ground
His one single tear, would never be found
Cry not my friend God will take you home
The Angels in Heaven will not be alone

You're safe and well as a child to his mother
You will always be remembered as
OUR FALLEN BROTHER

Author Unknown


Words cannot express my deep sorrow for your loss. My heart cries for Pat. He will be forever in our thoughts and prayers, always.

Wife of a Philadelphia Highway Patrol Officer

Bridget George-Domanico

October 2, 2008

Dear McDonald Family,
So sorry for your tremendous loss. Pat was a great guy and I have many memories of him as a former grade school and high school classmate. May God provide you with peace and comfort during this difficult time.

Karen Moore

October 2, 2008

I am devastated for the McDonald family and Joanne. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. This is absolutely horrific. May the great memories you have of Patrick comfort you during this sad and difficult time. We were lucky to have known him and now there is a big, strong angel watching down over all of us.

Kathy Kelley

October 2, 2008

To the McDonald Family,
My deepest sympathies to you,to Commissioner Ramsey and the members of the Philadelphia Police Department on the tragic death of Patrick. He made the ultimate sacrifice for the people of Philadelphia. We owe him - and all police officers - our continued support, respect and promise of prayers. Patrick truly was one of "Philadelphia's Finest" - a credit to his family, to Archbishop Ryan High School and to the Philadelphia Police Department. May he rest in peace. You are in my prayers.
Kathy Kelley

Ryan Alumni Class of 1987

October 2, 2008

Remember Me

To the living, I am gone
To the sorrowful, I will never return
To the angry, I was cheated
But to the happy, I am at peace
And to the faithful, I have never left
I cannot speak, but I can listen
I cannot be seen, but I can be heard

So as you stand upon a shore, gazing at a beautiful sea,
Remember me
As you look upon a flower, and admire it's simplicity,
Remember me

Remember me in your hearts, your thoughts, and your memories
The times we loved
The times we cried
The times we fought
The times we laughed

For if you always think of me,
I will never be gone

Author Unknown

CLINT ANDERSON

October 2, 2008

I AM SADENED TO HEAR ANOTHER BROTHER HAS FALLEN MY CONDOLENCES GO OUT TO HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS.

CLINT ANDERSON #10 ORLANDO GAURDIANS

Chrissy Sullivan

October 2, 2008

To the Mcdonald Family,

I am so sorry for your loss of your son, brother, and boyfriend, as I read all of these entries I wish that I had the chance to know Pat but as my husband (Ryan Grad-Class of '91) said he was a hero in life and now a hero in death and he died just doing what he loved and that was being a Philadelphia police officer and protecting the city. My thoughts and my prayers go out to you and all of the men and women in blue. You will be missed by so many of those lives that you have touched and now you are in the Lords house and are your families angel. RIP SGT. Patrick McDonald

bill shouldis

October 2, 2008

Truely a sad time for the family and friends. Everyone in the region has lost a positive role-model.

RETIRED OFFICER'S FAMILY

October 2, 2008

Officer McDonald's Family,

Please know that your son is appreciated and will be in our prayers. There are no words that convey just how sorry we are. Our father was retired and a proud member of Highway at one time. We're certain your son was met by his brother and an army of his brother's from Highway Patrol.

Daniels Family

October 2, 2008

McDonald Family,
Our hearts go out to you all. Losing a precious loved one is never, ever easy so may you find solace in "the Father of tender mercies and the God of all comfort." (2 Cor 1:3,4) May your precious memories bring you comfort.

October 2, 2008

Pat,
I can not believe this has happened. You were a great person, I remember all the times you would make me laugh, how out spoken you were. It was like you didn’t have a filter, but it was funny, never mean or malicious. Your stories that were so bizarre yet so funny, I could listen to them for hours, and when I recall them now they still make me laugh. You are truly the meaning of a free spirit. At the mass when they promoted you to Sgt. Patrick McDonald, I thought my god I wish you were alive so I could see the joy in your eyes as you told everyone, like when you made it to the highway patrol squad; you were so proud, like your were on top of the world. There are so many things I want to say I just can’t seem to find the words. I will miss you forever, and take comfort that you are now in a much happier place and still with people you love. RIP Pat.
Love always.

donald regan

October 2, 2008

god bless eveone sorry it happing im 38 yrsold so yong ill keep my pryss four eveone

Gary Forrester

October 2, 2008

I am Police Officer in Bucks County and I attended the funeral. When the day was over and I was driving back to the station, all I could think about was how I wish I knew Pat. God bless you and may Sgt Patrick McDonald rest in peace!

The Lackman Family

October 1, 2008

Our family is so sorry for your loss. You are all in our prayers.

October 1, 2008

All the angels above greeted the newcomer with open arms...heaven, we know, just got a little bit nicer.


Archbishop Ryan Class of 1996

Maureen, Chris and Ryan Ricchini

October 1, 2008

McDonald Family,
Our deepest condolences to your family during this unbearable time. It doesn't seem fair that a family who had to bury one son now had to bury another. Please know that you are in our hearts and in our prayers.

October 1, 2008

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Karen Cointot-Baldwin

October 1, 2008

The McDonald Family,
My heartfelt condolences to all of you at this difficulty time. I can remember Pat's smiling face and great sense of humor when reporting for work at Heartline Ambulance. We had a lot of fun times at work and out of work playing sports in Burholme Park. Pat was a great guy and will be greatly missed by all.
My prayers are with all of you.

Colleen Brown-Rodebaugh

October 1, 2008

Mr and Mrs McDonald and Megan,
It was truly a privilege to have known Patrick and your entire family growing up together on Whitehall. I am so sorry for your tragic loss. May the way he lived his life be an inspiration to us all. He will be greatly missed. We will always keep you in our thoughts and prayers.

Corinne

October 1, 2008

My thoughts & prayers are with the entire McDonald family. I am beyond sorry for your loss. Although I didn't know Pat personally, friends of mine did and spoke so highly of him. Again, I'm so sorry for your loss.

October 1, 2008

TO THE MCDONALD FAMILY, I WISH I KNEW SGT MCDONALD, HE REALLY WAS A GREAT POLICE OFFICER AND A GOOD PERSON. I CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR SGT MCDONALD AND FOR YOUR FAMILY. THE CITY OF PHILA HAS A BROKEN HEART ALSO. GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY! A ROXBOROUGH RESIDENT

R. Mowry

October 1, 2008

To the Family,Girlfriend & Family Of Sgt. McDonald
Deepest sympathy for your loss of such a outstanding man

October 1, 2008

our deepest sympathy goes out to the family and friends of Patrick McDonald.

Bob V

October 1, 2008

R.I.P. Pat. You are true warrior. God Bless you and you your family

Carol Owens

October 1, 2008

May God Bless your family. I am truly sorry for your great loss of a wonderful son.

October 1, 2008

Death leaves a heartache, no one can heal. Love leaves a memory no one can steal!!!

KAYE CYRWAY

October 1, 2008

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

October 1, 2008

I didnt know Patrick personally but played against him and the Philly Blue Flame in the Gold Star Bowl in Chicago. I specifically remember how tough of a runner he was.
Both cities have lost two great officers as P.O. Nate Taylor was just recently killed in the line of duty. May God bless you Patrick and all your family. Fellow Chicago P.O. and football player.

DG

October 1, 2008

To the entire McDonald Family:

My deepest sympathies to you for your loss. Understanding that no one single condolence will heal your broken hearts, know that an entire city is praying for you. Patrick made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the citizens of this city. Without ever being able to truly repay him for that, all I can do is say "Thank you and Rest in Peace".

May God look over all of you, and help ease your unspeakable pain.

Parkwood Manor

October 1, 2008

Thank you Seargant Patrick McDonald for being a true inspiration and modern day hero. You are a warrior, a gladiator and now an Angel. My family was blessed to have known you. I am following in your footsteps to become one of Philadelphia's finest and know you will be watching over. Your life has moved the community like no other. Thank you!

A Murphy

October 1, 2008

As a mother of a police officer, my heart aches for your loss. God bless the entire McDonald family.

Paul N Schlear, Jr

October 1, 2008

To the Family of Sgt. McDonald,

It is with a heavy heart and our deepest condolences on the loss of life of someone so young.

Nothing anyones says will make this pain go away. Everyone deals with the pain differently.

Know this though, You are Not Alone!

You will be remembered in Prayer with the Oblates of St. Francis DeSales

Melissa Bas

October 1, 2008

As a daughter of a Philadelphia Police Officer my thought and prays go out to you. Having met Office McDonald breifly in the past and he was a very nice man. It is truly sad to loose someone so young and so brave.

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