Larry McDonald

Larry Gene McDonald, a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and proud veteran, passed away on April 13, 2026, at the age of 76.

Born on December 2, 1949, to Wendell Dee and Ruth McDonald, Larry grew up with a spirited and restless energy that would continue to define him. This rambunctious nature often left his teachers at their wits' end, resulting in a steady stream of notes home to a mother who worked tirelessly to keep pace with his antics. That same vitality soon found a home on the athletic field, where Larry emerged as a sports prodigy. Whether leading the charge as the quarterback for the football team or commanding the diamond as the captain of the baseball team, his natural leadership was undeniable. This charisma ultimately led his peers at Ben Lomond High School to elect him Student Body President during his senior year in 1968.

Following high school, Larry answered the call to duty and served his country during the Vietnam War. Upon returning home, he built a stable and distinguished career, dedicated to public service. He retired after 45 years of working for the Department of Defense at Hill Air Force Base, a testament to his work ethic and reliability. Marking the end of a long chapter of service, but never the end of his active pursuit of joy.

A true free spirit who moved through the world to the rhythm of his own drum, Larry’s journey was a mosaic of landscapes—from the mountains of Utah to the shores of Hawaii and the fields of Battle Creek, Michigan. For the past 42 years, the community of Roy, Utah, served as the anchor for his adventurous soul. He remained an active sportsman throughout his life, playing golf regularly and participating in recreational softball and baseball leagues.

But life was simply more fun when viewed from a stadium bleacher or a theater chair. Larry and his son, Ryan, made a tradition out of the easy escape of a movie and the predictable excitement of a ballgame. These moments were the best kind of fun—uncomplicated, filled with laughter, and always better because they were doing it together.

Above all, Larry was fiercely loyal. His support for his family was unwavering, and he was a constant, encouraging presence in the lives of his son and granddaughters. In the quiet moments at home, he found his greatest companionship in his beloved dog, Mickey.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Wendell Dee and Ruth McDonald. He is survived by his brother, Douglas McDonald; his son, Ryan McDonald and daughter-in-law Brandie; and his cherished granddaughters, Sophia and Alyssa McDonald, and his step-granddaughters, Harper and Quinn Rich. Together, they were the pride of his life.

Larry was a charismatic, funny, and fiercely loyal man who lived life entirely on his own terms. His spirit and energy will be missed.