Donald William McElrath
Donald William McElrath
Obituary
Guest Book
Donald McElrath Obituary
Donald W. "Shorty" McElrath, 89, retired Carpenter, Musician, and Korean War Veteran, passed away at his home Tuesday, February 18, 2025. Donald was known by "Shorty" and well as "Donnie Mac" by those who knew him from the days that his band "Donnie Mac and The High Plains Drifters traveled around the music industry. He was born July 10, 1935 in Kingston, NY to the late William and Dorothy McElrath. Shorty was also preceded in death by his wife of 46 years, Helen and his daughters, Lisa McElrath, Sheila McElrath and Patricia Koch. Survivors include his sons, Tony Rouse and Tracy Rouse; daughters, Teresa Mills, Tonya (Craig) Bruner, Kathy (Mike) Hensen, Dianna (Mark) Stever and Donna McElrath; brothers, Freddie, Jackie and Sonny; sisters, Jill, Bev and Sheila; 24 grandchildren and 40 great-grandchildren. Donald will be greatly missed by his family and all that knew him.
Memorials to:
Rainbows United
3223 N. Oliver
Wichita, KS 67220
__
Special Olympics
5280 Foxridge Drive
Mission, KS 66202
1147 South Broadway, Wichita, KS 67211
People and places connected with Donald
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Memories and Condolences
for Donald McElrath
Make a Donation
in Donald McElrath's name
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
How to support Donald's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Donald McElrath's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
