Ronald "Ronnie" MacDonald

Ron (Ronnie) MacDonald, 74, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday after a courageous battle with early onset Alzheimer's disease. Ron was a son of the late Neil W. and Gladys Grogan MacDonald. He is survived by his loving wife and soulmate, Joan Wisneski MacDonald. They celebrated 51 joy-filled years of marriage.

A graduate of St. Patrick's High School in Scranton, Ron retired after 40 years of work for the Erie Lackawanna, Conrail, and Norfolk Southern Railroads. He was a devoted parishioner of St. Peter and Paul Church, West Scranton, where he served as a former lector, usher and choir member. He also enjoyed donating his time to the annual Fall Festival.

Ron was a gentle soul, blessed with an infectious smile that he wore wherever he went. He was simply "the best" - a devoted husband, a loving and supportive father, a doting proud Poppy, and a trusted, respected friend to many. He loved and adored his wife, Joan, and treated her like a queen. When Ron became sick, the roles were reversed and she enjoyed taking care of her king.

He was a true family man in every sense of the word. He had an unwavering moral compass and was the best role model his children could have, and taught them how to love unconditionally. He was a lifelong Notre Dame and New York Yankees fan. The family is left with many fond visits to Notre Dame, vacations at the beach and poolside parties at the house.

In addition to his wife, he is also survived by his son, Ron and Ngan MacDonald, Hampshire, Ill.; daughter, Kristen and Matt Scalese, Moscow; and son, Matthew MacDonald, Pittsburgh; his adoring grandchildren, Aiden, Nolan and Bridget MacDonald, and Mia, Emma and Noah Scalese. Also surviving are his sister, Jeanne and Ed Wirth; and brothers, Neil J. and Norie; Michael and Patty MacDonald, Tioga; and William and Lori MacDonald, Scranton; sister in-law, Shirley and husband, Michael Intoccia; and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to acknowledge Telespond and the staff at Hospice of the Sacred Heart for the special care given to Ron.

The funeral will be Monday with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at St. Peter and Paul Church, West Locust St., Scranton, followed by interment, St. Peter and Paul Cemetery. There will be a viewing for family and friends Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Neil W Regan Funeral Home Inc., 1900 Pittston Avenue, Scranton PA 18505.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ss. Peter and Paul Church, 1309 W. Locust St., Scranton PA 18504.