Peter Macdonald

April 16, 1943 - July 26, 2026

On July 26, 2026, the world lost an exceptional person. Peter Macdonald passed away at the age of 83 from sudden medical complications, leaving behind his loving daughter, Alison (Wayne); grandson, Tristan; sisters, Carol and Sue; and brother, Brian. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Shelley, and his brother, Rick.

Peter was one of the most positive people out there. He always saw the best in people and never let life get him down. He could talk to anyone and never found a silence that he couldn't fill.

Teaching science at RCBHS and FESS gave some of his greatest memories. He truly loved teaching and watching his students blossom. His science experiments and worm cookies were legendary, and his passion for the arts saw him direct several musicals.

His love of music led him to many years of singing with the Buffalo Schola Cantorum, where one of the highlights was performing alongside Jessye Norman. For many summers, he went to craft shows where he sold his weavings along with Shelley's stuffed animals. Fifty years later, he still fondly admired the pottery he had received through trades.

Peter loved to garden, and the flower and vegetable gardens at his Sherkston farm were his pride and joy. He firmly believed that you could never have too many tomatoes. His love of gardening was closely followed by his love for cooking. He was always researching new recipes, and always had to zhuzh them up with his own personal spin.

Special thanks go to Renata and Claudia, who made it possible for him to age in place, and to his friends who kept up their monthly lunch dates. He cherished you all.

Peter will be missed by so many people. Our profound grief is a testament to the special place he had in all of our hearts. We will remember him fondly.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation are greatly appreciated. And in keeping with Peter's wishes, the family will hold a private scattering of his ashes.