Obituary of David Robert McDonald
David Robert McDonald was born in Monroe, Michigan on January 5, 1941. He was one of four children born from the union of Vernon James and Alice Mae (Rowe) McDonald. He attended Airport Schools, graduating with the Class of 1959.
On November 4, 1961, David married the lovely, Janice Hoffman. Together, the couple would have three children. David may not have been fond of animals, but being a selfless man, he welcomed Rocky the raccoon, Bubbles the pig, and Chucky the chicken (who was really a rooster) into the family, as well as horses and other animals. David made countless sacrifices during his lifetime, providing for his children with whatever their hearts desired.
A real-life “MacGyver”, David could rig anything to make it work. He took pride in repairing the family tractor, cars and motorcycles back to working order.
David had a strong passion for riding on his Harley Davidson. He and the love of his life, Brenda, who he affectionately called, “Luvy”, rode all over the country, apart from Alaska and Hawaii. After retiring from Ford Motor Company in 1994, David moved to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, because of his deep love of the Smokey Mountains. It was there that he was at the peak of happiness. After returning to Michigan in 2015, he enjoyed riding through the beautiful and hilly roads of Irish Hills.
Being a lover of water, David could often be found cruising on his boat or water skiing on the lake in Tennessee where he had a home.
David Robert McDonald, age 80, of Monroe, passed away at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit at 4:44pm on Wednesday, March 10, 2021. In addition to his parents, his passing was preceded by a brother: Wayne McDonald; a sister; Barbara Oerther, and great-grandchildren: Silas and Evalyn.
Left to cherish his memory are his three children: Kelli Mistry, Brad (Mary Beth) McDonald and Paula McDonald; a sister: Yvonne (Mark) Mexicott; the love of his life: Brenda “Luvy” Jones; twelve grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
Friends may gather on Sunday; March 14, 2021 from 12:30pm until 2:30pm at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of His Life will take place at 2:30pm officiated by Pastor Dennis Maples followed by procession to Huron Valley Cemetery in Flat Rock. David will take his “final ride” in a custom motorcycle hearse.
Online guests may visit www.merklefs.com.