Paul Mcdonald John

John Paul McDonald, age 60, longtime resident of Newark, died unexpectedly on Friday, January 2, 2015.

John Paul was born in Geneva, on June 5, 1954, a son of Joseph J. and Anne (Tarr) McDonald. He graduated from South Seneca Central School, where he excelled in sports. John was a graduate of Ithaca College, earning his degree in physical therapy. He was in the top of his field in advancements in physical therapy, and travelled to California to further his career. Upon returning to New York, he settled in Newark, working at the Demay Living Center, and spent some time as a travelling physical therapist, most recently working in the Rhinebeck area. John was an avid gardener, and took great pride in the bounty of his garden, canning and freezing his crop.

John is survived by his former wife, Michelle McDonald of Newark; his daughters, Melissa of Lavon, TX and Margaret of Winston-Salem, NC, 2 grandchildren; his mother, Anne T. Getman of Willard; and his siblings, Stephen J. (Bonnie) McDonald of Zephyrhills, FL, Susan M. McDonald of Ovid, and Allan J. McDonald of NYC. He was preceded in death by his father in 1965, a sister, Joann M. Mourey in 2010 and by his son, James “Jimmy” McDonald in 2011.

In accordance with John’s wishes, services will be held privately. A Memorial Scholarship will be established in John’s name, kindly consider a donation in his memory to: John Paul McDonald Scholarship, c/o South Seneca Central School, 7263 Main Street, Ovid, NY 14521