BYRON — Patrick M. Donaldson, age 78, passed away peacefully the morning of February 14, 2024 at Swedish American Hospital in Rockford. Pat was born on July 1st, 1945 to the parents of John & Catherine Donaldson of Byron. He was born and raised on farmland in Byron, where Pat attended Byron High School, graduating in the Class of 1964 where he played basketball and was a member of FFA. After school, Pat entered the Army during the years of 1966-1968 where he served admirably as a Military Policeman at Fort Hood, Texas. Pat was a 53-year member of Local 150 Operators Union. He garnered much respect, love, memories and friends during his 42-year career at Rockford Blacktop Construction where Pat was the paver operator. A prolific storyteller and genuine great guy, Pat could be seen working hard but also finding time to mix in some fun. Pat lived off Meridian Road outside of Byron for the past 50 years, where he loved to spend his time tending to his wood piles, yard, dogs, and special turkeys. He enjoyed sitting at his table looking at the newspaper and having his daily coffee. Pat was always welcome to an iced Cold drink or two, some good conversation and music. After retirement, Pat could often be seen cruising Byron, stopping by the grocery store, or attending Byron sporting events. Pat married Karen Oelrich in 1968, with whom he had 4 children who were his pride and joy. Daughters; Trish Donaldson and Diana Rippentrop (Mark). Sons; Mike Donaldson and Andy (Linsay) Donaldson. Pat was a wonderful, loving Grampa to 8 Grandchildren and 3 Great-Grandchildren who he loved to brag about; Brittani Head (Nate Bradford) & Adam Head (Amanda Carter); Laken Sisson (Robbie) & Kaitlin Garibaldi (Max); Makenna Donaldson & Abby Donaldson; Myles Donaldson & Codee Donaldson; Arthur Sisson & Ophelia Sisson; AJ Garibaldi. Pat is preceded in death by his parents, Brothers (Dick Donaldson, Bob Donaldson, & John Donaldson) and Sister (Gerrie Mathews). Pat is survived by his sisters, Sharon Meline and Sheila Lemke (Roger) and numerous Nieces and Nephews. A Celebration of Pat’s Life will be held on March 2nd, 2024 from 1:00-4:00 PM at the PrairieView Golf Pavilion in Byron. In lieu of flowers or donations, we ask that you simply take a moment to remember our Dad fondly, smile at the memories, laugh at one of his stories, maybe plant a tree. And remember when things get out of control and you just don’t have any answers, just do as our Dad would do and say with a grin and a shrug, “Ah Well, Whadddygonnado”? We will all miss you greatly Dad! To leave an online condolence please visit www.farrellhollandgale.com
