WEST BROOKFIELD - Richard J. McDonald passed away peacefully at home on July 7th, 2026. He will be lovingly missed by his family. 

Richard was predeceased by his beloved wife Helen A. [Schneider] McDonald, and is survived by a son, William A. McDonald of Spencer, MA, a daughter, Mary B. McDonald of Whitman, MA and four stepdaughters, Lisa A. Swisher of Cape Coral, FL; Lee A. Duquette of Southbridge, MA; Thayne E. Parker of Longmont, CO; Cindy E. Lebeaux of Halifax, MA, and 8 grandchildren and several great grandchildren.

He is predeceased by his siblings Margaret, Marie, John, Daniel, and Thomas.

Richard was born in N. Brookfield, MA on October 24th, 1933, to Hazel (Erickson) and Archie B. McDonald. He attended Putnam High School and proudly enlisted and served in the U.S. Navy for 4 years. During the Korean war, he was honorably discharged. Upon his return home, he worked in construction, as a union laborer for over 30 years until his retirement. He also performed Masonry work for as many years, continuing to his late 70s. 

He was a proud member of the Masonic Organization. He is a past master of the Quinebaug Lodge of Southbridge. He belonged to the York Rite Bodies of Worcester. He is a Past Grand Scribe of the Grand Royal Arch Chapter. He is a Past Grand Captain of the Guard of the Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters. He is a Past Grand Captain of Worcester County Commandry. He is a Past Priory of the Knights of the Royal Cross of Honor. 

A Funeral Service for Richard will be on Saturday, July 18th, at Noon, with calling hours preceding it from 10-12. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children on their website at www.donate.shrinerschildrens.org/give or you can mail a donation to Shriners Children's (Attn: Shriners Children's) PO Box 947765, Atlanta, GA 30394. 

An online guestbook and tribute video will be available at www.BelangerFuneralHome.com