Roger Dale McDonald

Roger Dale McDonald passed peacefully at Uxbridge Cottage Hospital on the morning of Sunday, October 25, 2026, after being brought to the hospital the day before surrounded by close family. He was 75. At his side was his loving wife of 52 years, Elizabeth, whose steadfast presence reflected the deep bond they shared throughout a long and devoted marriage.

Roger will be remembered as a loving husband and father, a dependable and reliable man, and the kind of neighbour anyone would be grateful to have. He was a man of few words, yet his actions spoke clearly: he was helpful, generous with his time, thoughtful, and deeply valued quality time with friends and family. Those who knew him will remember his quick-witted sense of humour, his steady nature, and the warmth he brought to everyday life. He was loved dearly by all who knew him, especially his wife and daughters.

A proud and dedicated public servant, Roger spent 32 years with York Regional Police as a Constable, badge #148, serving at 1 District, 3 District, and later as a Court Officer in Newmarket. His years of service were marked by many commendations, a reflection of the commitment and professionalism he brought to his work. After that, he continued serving for another 14 years as a York Regional Police Interoffice Mail Courier, remaining connected to the community and organization that had been such an important part of his life.

Outside of work, Roger found great happiness in the outdoors and in the company of those he cared about. He loved steel lining in the summer, ice fishing in the winter, and hunting in the fall. He was known for his superior fishing and ice fishing skills—whitefish and lake trout had to watch out when he was around. Many treasured memories were made fishing and hunting out of Poverty Heights at Lake St. Nora and ice fishing on Lake Simcoe. He especially loved time spent with his fishing and hunting buddies, and those outings became part of the rhythm and joy of his life.

Roger also knew how to make ordinary moments memorable. He enjoyed playing cribbage, dice, and bones with family and friends, and he was a fan of classic rock. In quieter hours, he was the ghost writer of late-night poetry, another reflection of the thoughtful spirit behind his reserved manner. He will be fondly remembered for the good times shared in his garage gallery and personal dance floor, for “having a twiddle with Rog” in his garage, and for the way his garage door was always open to anyone passing by. It was a place of laughter, friendship, music, and welcome—much like Roger himself.

He was also a long-standing member of the Mount Albert Lions Club and the Legion, organizations that reflected his loyalty, community spirit, and willingness to be part of something larger than himself.

Roger is survived by his beloved wife, Elizabeth McDonald; his eldest daughter Carrie Morrison (Darrell Morrison) and youngest daughter Connie Stapleton (Sarah Symes); his six grandchildren, Clarke and Eric Morrison, Jaycie and Declan Stapleton, Abigail and Lucas Symes; his brother, Brian McDonald; and his sister, Marilyn Longfield. He was predeceased by his granddaughter Carlee Dale Morrison; father, Roy McDonald; his mother, Verna McDonald; and his sister, Carol Moffat-Hill. He took great pride in his family, and the love he gave them will remain a lasting part of their lives.

Roger’s life was built on devotion—to his family, to his work, to his friends, and to the simple pleasures that brought people together. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humour, loyalty, and quiet strength. He will be deeply missed and warmly remembered by all who had the good fortune to know him.

A Celebration of Life will be held for Roger on Saturday, December 5th from 1:00 until 4:00 at the Mount Albert Legion (31 Princess St, Mount Albert).  Wear your best bluejeans, favourite flannel shirt, or lucky fishing sweater!