Charles “Bud” Willard MacDonald was one of nine children born to Charles Edward and Lillian Howard MacDonald on March 9, 1936, died Feb. 2, 2021. He graduated from Downsville Central School in 1953 and cultivated many lifetime friendships that began in his youth. Bud served for three years in the U.S. Army before 30 years as a police officer for the town of Colchester. After retirement from law enforcement he enjoyed several years driving school bus for Downsville Central School. He loved children and hours were spent each entertaining the other.
He was a friend to many who enjoyed his wit and storytelling from his life experiences. He embodied small town life and meaningful daily connection with the people of Downsville and neighboring towns. Bud recollected fondly his boyhood memories of working on the farm with his beloved paternal grandfather. He shared years of love and friendship with his seven sisters and one brother, as well with his in-laws and nieces and nephews.
Except for his sister, Dawn Spencer, and brother-in-laws Ron Tillapaugh and Walt Horylev, all of his siblings have predeceased him: Doris and Ted Jones, Phyllis Morin, Shirley and Francis Grant, Sharlie Horylev, Kay Tillapaugh, Maxine and Roland Doig, and Fred MacDonald. His sisters-in-law Patti Scott (William predeceased), Shirley Keene (Richard predeceased), and brother-in-law William McClenon (Linda) also survive him.
He was a faithful and loving husband of 58 years to Leona McClenon MacDonald who predeceased him in 2016. They were the best of friends and dance partners and he missed her terribly when she passed on before him. Leona so enjoyed his sense of humor and he adored her. He and Leona left behind three children: Susan (Richard) Townsend of Bainbridge, Kim (Bruce
Skellie) Shaw of Sidney, and Ed (Malissa) MacDonald of Surprise, Ariz.; 11 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Raising their own children, as well as enjoying (beyond measure) time with grandchildren, brought so much happiness, laughter and contentment to them both.
Their family will forever be indebted and enriched by the unconditional, unwavering and nurturing love of Charles and Leona. Charles “Bud” frequently commented on how he felt so blessed and lucky, and his family couldn’t agree more.
