John Vincent McDonald
August 18, 1917 - August 13, 2009
John Vincent McDonald
Vince
No matter how old, no matter how ill, it still seems too soon to bid farewell to a dear husband, father, brother and friend. Vince McDonald passed peacefully to his eternal reward on August 13th, 2009.
He was born on August 18th, 1917, in Salt Lake City, attending Judge Memorial and Stevens Henager Business College.
Vince claimed the smartest thing he ever did was to say to a freckle-faced girl from Millard County, “Next weekend is the Fourth of July. What do you say we get married?” On July 3, 1948, Marie Western joined Vince in a 61 year marriage, exemplifying love, partnership and devotion. He and Marie resided in St. Louis, MO, and Orange County, CA, but always returned home to Salt Lake.
Vince was an avid outdoorsman, hunter and fisherman. His idea of heaven would be pheasant hunting with his cousins. He gardened and spent countless hours cross stitching.
Vince was proud of his Irish heritage. He was a man of keen wit and sharp intellect, disinterested in flash or fanfare. Love of his family, hard work and a strong belief in his faith best described his life. A successful business executive, Vince managed wholesale plumbing and heating, appliance, and sporting goods sales. He and Marie owned an Arctic Circle Restaurant. Vince was a devout Catholic and for many years attended St. Vincent de Paul and later St. Ambrose.
Survived by his wife Marie; sisters Naydene Shortell and Jacqueline Allen; daughters Catherine (Katie), Janine, Joan Terese (TC); sons-in-law Patrick J. Jefferies and Frithjof Clausen; and grandchildren William and Rebecca Hards, Sierra and Marie Jefferies, Kelsey, Jessica, and Caitlin Doyle, Anette, Patrick and Catherine Clausen. Preceded in death by an infant son; daughter Jacqueline M. Hards; sister Denyse Gledhill.
Per Vince’s wishes, he was able to remain in his home through an extended illness due to the tireless efforts of his beloved wife. The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to the many contributors to his care including Dr. Lara Hardman, Lillian, Love Hospice volunteers and staff, the St Ambrose eucharistic ministers, and Neighbors-to-Neighbors volunteers.
A wake will be held on Vince’s 92nd birthday, Tuesday, August 18th from 7 to 9 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 19th at 11:00 AM at St. Ambrose Catholic Church, 1975 South 2300 East, SLC. Interment at Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery, SLC.
In Loving Memory
Marie and Family, I was so sorry to hear of Vince's passing. I hope that the strength and love of your family will give you peace during this very difficult and sad time. You are an inspiration, Marie. Love, Sherri Haden (former Love Hospice volunteer)
Sherri Haden
Salt Lake City, UT
Katie, Mrs. McDonald, TC; So sorry to hear of your loss. I wish you God's peace. Many fond memories.
Kathleen Wilson
West Wendover, NV
Katie, I am sorry for your loss. Losing our parents is such a hard deal! I hope that you are finding comfort and peace at this time. Much love, Melissa
Melissa Adamson
Salt Lake City, UT
Dear Katie, I'm sorry to hear of your father's passing. He sounds like a wonderful man. It's so hard to lose a parent; someone who's always been there. I hope the memories of his love and happy times together are a comfort to you and your family. Much love, Cindy
Cindy Panish
Cottonwood Heights, Ut
Dear Katie, I cannot express how sorry I am to hear about the passing of your dad. . I have to share a memory with you which should make you smile. Remembering when the family-owned Artic Circle on 9th and Vine (5900) was still booming, my Dad often stopped there for dinner on his way home from Sears. We were always excited about those evenings. He would pick up some of the best hamburgers I have ever tasted. I still remember him going in and saying, "How ya doing, Mac?" Dad passed away at 90 from complications of diabetes last July. If there is anything I can do, please let me know. I'll remember you in my prayers. Please give my best to Patrick and your family. Barb
Barbara Tezak Herndon
Murray, Ut
Marie, TC and family, Our hearts go out to you and your family at this difficult time.You were such a wonderful caregiver for Vince,Marie. May you feel peace and comfort and know that you are loved by many. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to help in a small way and sharing your sweetheart with us. Love, Donna Smith(Coordinator of Volunteer Services Love Hospice)
Donna Smith
Bountiful, Ut