Dates
Our beloved father, Fred E. McDonald, passed away peacefully at his home on June 12, 2019.
Fred McDonald was born on November 27, 1932, to Charles and Pearl McDonald. He graduated from San Angelo High School in 1950. After high school, Fred worked as a Draftsman at Malden Ballard. He then went on to serve in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955 and continued serving in the Army Reserves until 1958. The military gave Fred the opportunity to continue his education. He dreamed of becoming an architect and was able to do so through the GI Bill. He attended San Angelo College for 2 years and finished his education at Texas Tech University and The University of Texas. While at Texas Tech, he worked as a draftsman for Page, Sutherland, Page Architectural Firm. Fred also taught drafting classes for a brief time at San Angelo College.
Fred married the love of his life, Sue Watson, on August 18, 1956. Sue and Fred spent many wonderful years together, traveling the world and raising their family. Together, Fred and Sue had three children, Melodie McDonald, Jeff McDonald and Genny McDonald Henderson.
Throughout his life, Fred worked for many architectural and engineering firms. He went on to become partners with Jack McDermott, forming McDermott, McDonald Architectural Firm. Fred’s talent in architecture can be seen in buildings throughout all of San Angelo and West Texas.
Fred was also heavily involved in the San Angelo community. He was a member of the Freemasonry where he was raised as a Master Mason with Lodge 570 of San Angelo, Texas on January 13, 1961. As a Master Mason, he obtained his 32nd Degree Mason and Scottish Rite of Freemasonry. He also devoted his time to Shriners, Rotary Club, Elks Club, City Planning Commission, Industrial Developers of San Angelo and the Home Builders Association.
Fred and his wife Sue were always ready for an adventure. They enjoyed numerous trips around the world sponsored by General Electric. When Fred was not on a trip with his wife or working hard as an architect, he enjoyed hunting and fishing trips with his many close friends and family.
Later in life, Fred found the most joy in spending time with his grandchildren. He loved taking them on adventures and sat front row at all of their school and sporting events. He was their biggest fan and present for all of their achievements.