Tribute to Donald MacDonald, 1931 - 2025

I had the opportunity to stay for just over a month with Robbie and Julie in 2020. There are many things I miss about that peaceful time but one thing that stands out is Friday nights with g Grandpa. My family never really had traditions, but in the MacDonald home, grandpa would show up like clockwork just in time to enjoy Jura whisky and perhaps listen to theme songs from old James Bond movies. He would tell a stories about growing up in Scotland. Of course my favorite was about a local doctor that prescribed wearing cardboard over his chest while riding a bike in order to cure his, then unknown, appendicitis. Thankfully his ailment was recognized by a doctor serving with the draft board and he was saved. Knowing I was from the United States, we would have a semi heated discussion about who was a better singer, Frank Sinatra or Perry Como. I would always support Sinatra just so I can hear Grandpa tell me how he sold out to be more "jazzy" and marketable while Como was a true crooner. Of course I'd have a smile ear to ear. We'd often end the night with a rich hot chocolate. I have to admit I miss those nights very much now. I'm so glad I had the brief opportunity to enjoy company with such a pleasant man.

Thank you for being you.