David Sean McDonald, lovingly known as Dave, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2026, at the age of 65, at Tampa General Hospital in Tampa, Florida, surrounded by family after a long and courageous battle with heart disease.

Dave was born on March 20, 1961, in Bridgeport, to Thomas Langdon McDonald and Elizabeth Ann McDonald, and was raised in Sandy Hook. He graduated from Saint Rose Elementary School in 1975, Immaculate High School in 1979, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in 1983, and Northwestern Michigan College School of Nursing in 2004 — foundations that began a life marked by curiosity, determination, and adventure.

Dave made friends wherever he went. He had a gift for conversation, a sharp sense of humor, and a way of making people feel welcome wherever he went. His life and career took him down many paths — from Head of Operations for Chalk's Airlines in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to owner of Dave's Landing Deli in Bellaire, Michigan, Regional Manager for Allstate Insurance in northern Michigan, owner of Bar Naked Soap company in Lake Leelanau, Michigan, Market Master for Leelanau Farmers Market in Lake Leelanau, Michigan, and multiple community leadership roles — and he poured his energy and personality into everything he did. Friends and family will remember him not just for his accomplishments and love of flying and traveling, but for the laughter, stories, generosity, and unforgettable presence he brought into every room.

Of all the roles Dave held in life, the ones he treasured most were partner, father, and grandfather. He shared a loving life with his partner, Dennis Marble of New Port Richey, Florida. He was a proud father to Nicholas McDonald and daughter-in-law Amber of Central Lake, Michigan, and nothing brought him greater joy than being “Papa” to his grandsons, Bentley and Miles McDonald.

Dave is also survived by his mother, Elizabeth Doty of Sandy Hook; his brother Sean McDonald and wife Glenda of Oakdale, Tennessee; sisters Megan Darragh and husband Paul of Southbury, and Marybeth Glen of Hudson, Ohio; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends who loved him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas L. McDonald; brothers Thomas L. McDonald II and Christopher S. McDonald; and sisters Bridget A. McDonald and Liz A. Doty.

Dave leaves behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, love, and friendships that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Funeral services will be held at Saint Rose Church in Newtown in September 2026 at the family’s discretion.