Arthur Richard McDonald, Jr., born October 8, 1943, in Gastonia, NC, beloved son of Arthur Richard "Dick" McDonald and Vivian Richardson McDonald, died peacefully after a tenacious fight with cancer.

Predeceased by his parents, his wife of 35 years, Loretta South McDonald, and son Ernest Teague.

He leaves behind a daughter Jackie Dyer & husband Rob, granddaughters Carlton & Austin of Boone. Others left to mourn his loss are sister-in-law Teresa South and partner Bob Quinlan, of Linville, NC, daughter-in-law Jennifer Teague, granddaughters Hannah and Olivia "Ivy" Teague of Denver, CO and grandson Josh Weddle of Lemoore, CA. His 4-legged companion, Molly, and partner, Eloise Eller of Wilmington, NC will sorely miss his twinkling eyes and impish humor. He and Eloise were elementary school friends graduating from China Grove High School in 1961. When they reconnected in their late 70s, they recognized a lasting bond and enjoyed many life enriching days together.

Richard loved playing golf, scuba diving, and boating. He was a Pilot in the Cape Fear Power Squadron.

Richard was a proud graduate of NC State University in electrical engineering in 1965. He was commissioned a 2nd Lt after graduation serving honorable in Army Intelligence during the Vietnam era. He enjoyed being an active member of the Wolfpack Club and NC State Forever Club as well as the Chancellor's Club. His professional career was highlighted by becoming a Life Senior member of the IEEE and a fifty plus years member of the National Society of Professional Engineers. He enjoyed being a part of MasTec, a leading utility contractor, where he served as a Senior Vice President.

His commitment to the highest ethics in construction and his willingness to invest in alternative forms of energy identified him as a man of respect, albeit at times not the most appreciated. His generosity to children's advocacy was a lifelong commitment. He chose to do so without acclaim. His loyalty to his family, friends, and colleagues was highlighted by his passion for encouraging others to their highest potential. When he recognized how his mentoring efforts actuated others to grow and achieve, he knew it was his life's work. There was no denying when he felt strongly about an issue!

While he supported many charitable organizations, he asked that donations be made to Boone United Methodist Church and St Jude's Children Cancer Institute, Memphis, TN.

Services will be at Boone United Methodist Church, Boone NC on Tuesday July 2nd at 1:00 pm. The family will receive friends following the service in the chapel at Boone United Methodist Church.

Interment will be in China Grove, NC at West Lawn on Wednesday July 3rd at 2:00 pm. All are welcome.

Online condolence may be sent to the family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.