John W. McDonald Jr.

John W. McDonald, Jr.
John W. McDonald Jr., formerly of North Haven, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2024, at Connecticut Baptist Home with his loving wife, Janice, beside him. "Jack" was born on December 16, 1935, in New Haven to John W. Sr. and Ruth (Farren) McDonald. He was the loving husband of 63 years to Janice Domingue McDonald. John was a graduate of Wilbur Cross High School in 1954. During his high school years, he worked part-time as a horse handler and trainer at McClay's Stables in East Haven. He went on to work for the State of Connecticut, as a snowplow driver, followed by his time at Kessler Installation Company for 60 years, where he served as General Manager for the New Haven office. He later worked for the Keegan Construction Company until his retirement. In his younger years, John was a car enthusiast and always took pride in his rare 1954 Mercury Sun Valley with Plexiglas roof. He was a true outdoorsman; spending most of his free time fishing, gardening, and bird watching. John also enjoyed competitive skeet shooting and duck hunting. He was a Boy Scout leader, music lover, accomplished accordion player, avid New York Yankees fan, and a true jack-of-all-trades. Mostly, Jack enjoyed the company of the family he and Janice hosted for many holidays and family picnics at their home in North Haven. A kind, humble, loyal, and compassionate man, he was a devoted husband and role model for all who knew him. Devoted father of John (Ellen) McDonald of Durham, and Scott McDonald of Hamden. Grandfather of Tyler and Nathan McDonald, and Nina McDonald. Brother of Barbara Parsons. Jack was predeceased by his daughter, Sharon McDonald Martin, as well as his sisters, Joan McDonald and Frances Taft.
The family will host a private gathering to celebrate a life well lived.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 200 Executive Boulevard, Suite 4B, Southington, CT 06489. www.northhavenfuneral.com