Obituary of David E. McDonald

David E. McDonald, 75 passed peacefully surrounded by his family on October 24th, 2022.  Born in Schenectady, NY, to his late parents, Warren G. and Ruth (VanDenburg) McDonald.  He was a 1965 graduate of Draper High School.  After high school, David proudly served in the United States Army. 

In 1966, he married his soul mate, Shirleyan Shakan.  For 55 years their love and family grew.  The two of them raised a wonderful family in Burnt Hills.  David was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and friend.  

David joined his late parents, Warren and Ruth McDonald, and his two brothers James and Robert McDonald in heaven.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Shirley McDonald; his three daughters, Colleen (Bob) Karl, Brenda (Mike) Sharer, Janine (Kyle) Sharp; and son David (Rebecca) McDonald. Nine grandchildren; Evan and Cassidy Karl, Jonathan, Emma, and Sean Sharer, Cody and Layla Sharp, Kaity and Mason McDonald.  Sisters, Mary Helene (Michael) Reilly, Ruth Ann (Frederick) Thayer, and Kathleen Van Rensburg, and several nieces and nephews.

David was a proud American and Patriot.  He was a member of the American Legion Post #234 and served as the commander for 7 years.  In addition, he served as President of the Burnt Hills Softball club where he enjoyed coaching his daughters and nieces to several victories.  He also found time to enjoy the great outdoors with family and dear friends.  He loved hunting, fishing and skeet shooting.   David’s favorite time of year was when he was able to go Pheasant hunting with his son, grandsons and his friends.  He is an Honorary Life member of the FNC and was an integral part of the founding of the FNC, and forever a member of the FNC family. He was also an Honorary Life Member of the Gooley club, for his 45 years of dedicated support and exemplary conduct in the pursuit of the outdoor sports.  Over the years, David also found time to serve as the New York State Skeet Shooting Association (NYSSA) president. He was the Skeet Shooting Chairmen of the Watervliet Rod and Gun Club.  He was a very accomplished shooter and is in the New York State Skeet Shooting Hall of Fame. 

For over 25 years, David worked for Sheet Metal Workers #83 as a superintendent, through MCD Mechanical.

Family and friends are welcomed at the Glenville Funeral Home this Saturday, October 29th.  Calling hours are from 10am – 12pm with a memorial service at 12pm, followed by a burial with military honors at Sweetman Cemetery in Charlton.

Memorial donations may be made to American Legion Post #234, 23 Pleasant St. Ballston Spa, NY 12020.  Online condolences may be made to glenvillefuneralhome.com