Daniel Robert McDonald

Daniel Robert McDonald, Sr. passed away on April 2, 2024, at the age of 94. He was born on December 13, 1929, to John Walter and Catherine Theresa Kusterman McDonald by a midwife in an alley behind Jack Sciambra’s Bar in New Orleans, Louisiana to what is now known as DMac's Bar and Grill, a fact that always brought a smile to his face. He was raised in a loving family alongside his siblings, John L. McDonald and Ruth McDonald Valley.

Daniel's life was marked by love and dedication. He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Beverly Mary Pizzuto McDonald, his son John McDonald, and his siblings.

Married for 65 years, Daniel and Beverly first met at a wedding reception at the Deutsches Haus, and their love endured through the years, creating a beautiful family together. He is survived by his children Michael "Mike" McDonald, Daniel "Dan" McDonald, Jr., Mark McDonald, and Thomas McDonald (Colleen), as well as his cherished grandchildren Michael McDonald, Jr., Mandy Rome (Cory), Erin McDonald (Michael Coward), Christopher "Chris" McDonald, Misty Eiserloh (Chad), Nicole Kittok (Michael), Matthew McDonald (Alexis), Nicholas McDonald (Rogustchelle), and Lollette McDonald, 11 great-grandchildren and 1 great grandchild on the way who brought endless joy to his life.

Daniel started working at a young age, sweeping streetcars when they accepted tokens as a form of payment. He graduated from Holy Cross College and went on to serve his country with honor. Daniel served in the Naval Reserve where his adventurous spirit led him to sail aboard the USS Wisconsin. He was aboard the USS Wisconsin on May 6, 1956, where amidst heavy fog, the battleship collided with the destroyer Eaton. After his service in the Naval Reserve, he enlisted in the Air Force, where he dedicated 25 years of service before retiring. He later worked as a Salesman with Woodward Whight, showcasing his strong work ethic and determination.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Daniel found joy in a variety of hobbies and interests that enriched his life. Whether sipping coffee and indulging on beignets at Morning Call in City Park, collecting WWII newspapers and coins. Daniel delighted in sharing stories with his children and grandchildren, recounting memories of a bygone era when mules pulled the Mardi Gras floats.

His love for his city was unwavering, as evidenced by his leisurely rides down Esplanade Avenue through the mesmerizing French Quarter, along Canal Street, and the iconic U-turn on St. Charles Avenue. He cherished every moment spent amidst the vibrant streets of New Orleans, embracing its culture and history with a passion that was truly inspiring.

Daniel Robert McDonald, Sr. will be remembered not only for his remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication but also for his warmth, kindness, and the love he shared with those around him. His presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the visitation at St. Christopher the Martyr Catholic Church, 3900 Derbigny Street, Metairie, LA on Monday, April 22, 2024, starting at 11:00 AM, followed a funeral mass at 1:00 PM. Burial will follow in St. Patrick #1Cemetery.