Bruce James McDonald

Bruce James McDonald, 85, passed away on Sunday, January 19, 2020 in Inverness, Florida. Bruce was born in Cortland, New York on February 21, 1934 to the late James McDonald and Lettie Mae Wright. 

A lifetime resident of Cortland County, he was a friend of many and called Pappy by every child he met. Bruce was a proud Union Ironworker and spent many years running J&B Welding alongside his second wife, Joanna. He was well known for his love of snowmobile racing and brought joy to many children with his cotton candy machine.
After retirement he became a true snowbird and traveled all over the USA in his prized RV. His winter home was in Inverness, FL, where he had many neighbors from home in upstate NY. After his health began to decline he lived the last 5 years permanently in the warmth of Florida.

He is survived by his loving wife, Sandie McDonald, his brother, Larry Scheffler, his children, Wayne (Melanie) McDonald, Emma (Denny Eaton) Keator, Blanche (John) Sewell, Bernice Zolla, David (Kathy) McDonald, Hugh (Terry) McDonald, Kay Ann Tracey, his daughter-in-law Amanda McDonald, John (Pat) Rice, Jim (Lori) Rice, Jay (Julie) Rice, Joel (Pam Ross) Rice, Jerry (Nicole) Rice, and Jeff (Judy Cass) Rice. He also leaves behind many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by his parents and brother Keith McDonald; a son, Keith McDonald; his second wife, Joanna Rice McDonald; first wife, Lois McDonald; and his sister, Wanda Edmonds.

In keeping with his wishes, no services will be held. Any donations of sympathy in memory of Bruce, please consider Humanitarians of Florida at 1031 N. Commerce Terrace, Lecanto, FL 34461. For the last years of his life, Bruce had much joy in taking care of the ferrel cats in his community and worried about their continued care.