We sadly announce the passing of John McDonald, attorney and longtime resident of Rhinebeck, New York, on March 17, 2023, St. Patrick’s Day, the day after his eightieth birthday, at Northern Dutchess Hospital. He was known for his singular intelligence, encyclopedic learning, and the empathy and generosity with which he approached all people. A lifelong pacifist and political dissident, John spent his life advocating for the poor and defending the cause of peace.
John was born in Boston, Massachusetts, to Mary Louise Dalton and John Gerard McDonald and grew up in an Irish Catholic household in the town of Braintree with his sisters Joanne, Margaret, and Marianne, and his brother and best friend Paul Francis McDonald. He attended Archbishop Williams High School where he distinguished himself as a brilliant student and athlete, and where he forged enduring friendships that he carried with him into adulthood, most notably with his friend David “Angus” McFarland. He went on to attend the University of Notre Dame, majoring in the Great Books and posting a winning record as an amateur boxer in the Bengal Bouts, and then to Columbia Law School.
John married Jeanette Rivard, the love of his life, on January 31, 1976, and they moved from New York City to Rhinebeck in 1977 where they owned and operated the Rhinebeck Tavern until 1994. John practiced community law and criminal defense until his retirement in 2005. He was most proud of his children. He served on the school board and coached Little League Baseball. A natural comedian and great talker, he will be remembered for his personal warmth, good humor, and superlative gift for language.
John is survived by his wife of forty-seven years, six grandchildren, and five children: Margaret M. Clayton (Michael) of Germantown, John G. McDonald, Jr. (Beth) of New York City, Paul A. McDonald of Red Hook, Brian D. McDonald (Olivia) of New York City, and Scott G. McDonald (Catherine) of Montreal, Canada. He is also survived by his brother Paul and sisters Joanne and Marianne and beloved sister and brother (in-laws) Lucy and Tom Kuriger and many other extended family members. He is predeceased by his sister Margaret M. McDonald. He died surrounded by his family, who adored him.
In lieu of flowers please send donations to St. Jude’s Children’s’ Hospital or Amnesty International.
His family will hold a private celebration of his life.
Arrangements are under the direction of Burnett & White Funeral Homes 7461 S. Broadway, Red Hook, NY.
To sign the online guest book, please visit www.Burnett-White.com.
