Obituary of Gary Peter Joseph McDonald

Surrounded by his family, Gary McDonald, 71, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2025.

Born on July 21, 1954, in Montreal, Quebec, he was the eldest of six children.  Being in a military family, he also lived and was schooled in Fort Nelson, BC, St. John’s, NL and Oromocto, NB.  Gary was always a top student and went on to complete a Business Degree and Law Degree from UNB.  While at UNB, he spent a lot of time volunteering with the Boys and Girls Club.  After graduating UNB law school in 1982, Gary had his own private practice in Oromocto for many years.  As a university student, he always loved to tinker with bicycles and after closing his practice, he worked in a number of bike shops in Toronto and Montreal.  Gary later returned to Oromocto to help care for his aging parents.

Gary had many passions and whatever he took on, it was always with a tremendous amount of determination and a high degree of care.  From a young age, he was an accomplished curler, winning 3 provincial titles in high school, one for NL and 2 for NB.  He loved playing cards, especially Bridge and could be quite competitive! He enjoyed reading books, especially the classics and Agatha Christie novels. He also loved listening to CBC radio. He travelled extensively to many remote parts of the world.

Gary is survived by his 5 siblings and their families: James (Carole, Richard and Jeremy), Michel (Maria, Forrest, Hunter and Jaden), Barbara Ann Toole (Christopher, Gregory and Devon), Richard (Marshall and Suzzanne) and Linda.  He was predeceased by his parents James and Colombe (Deschenes).

The family would like to thank the employees of Tucker Hall – Parkland, Saint John for their compassionate care of Gary.

Arrangements are under the care of McAdam’s Funeral Home. There will be no formal visitation. A private family celebration of life and internment will take place at a later date.  Donations in Gary’s memory may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.