Richard “Ricky” MacDonald, 79, of Marathon, Florida, formerly of Monticello, New York, passed away unexpectedly at home on September 28, following a lengthy illness.

Born on October 30, 1946, in Portage Lake, Maine, Ricky was the son of the late Helen Dorman and the late Lester MacDonald. Ricky is survived by his beloved wife Elizabeth “Liz” MacDonald; his cherished daughter Laurie MacDonald; his son Robert MacDonald and his wife Nicole; his son Richard W. MacDonald; his grandchildren Cole, Ava, and Jordan MacDonald, who were the loves of his life; his “son” Howard Liss; his sister Mikki LaBagh and her husband Gary; his sister-in-law Blanche Cohen; his brother Guy Dorman; his dear friend Harvey Weinberg, who he considered a brother; and many nieces and nephews. His brother Stuart Swett and sister Gail Kristoff predeceased him.

His early years were marked by hardships no child should have had to endure. His father passed away when Ricky was only a few days old, and during his childhood, his mother courageously battled cancer. Despite these difficult beginnings, he developed a quiet strength, compassion, and determination that stayed with him throughout his life.

Ricky was a devoted husband and loving father. He was also a proud veteran, a hardworking businessman, and a passionate fisherman. But above all, he was a family man. What meant the most to Ricky was the life he built with his wife Liz over their 51 years of marriage. Together, Ricky and Liz raised their children Robert and Laurie in a loving home filled with memories that would remain with them throughout their lives. Those who knew Ricky best knew how deeply he cared for his family and how much they meant to him. His children and grandchildren were his greatest joy, and he treasured every moment they shared.

In Sullivan County, Ricky owned and operated Kiamesha Riding Academy at the Concord Hotel, Yellow Cab Taxi Service, and Landfield Garage, where his mechanical ability, love of animals, and willingness to help others became well known. He believed in working with his own hands, solving problems, and building a life through hard work and independence. Ricky took immense pride in his accomplishments, especially in building his family home in Forestburgh, New York. Each of these ventures reflected his relentless drive and his desire to build something of his own.

Ricky had a lifelong love of the ocean and fishing, a passion first shared with him by his father-in-law, Julie Morton. That love eventually led Ricky to make Marathon, Florida, his home, where he pursued his dream of deep-sea fishing. The ocean became an important part of his life, bringing him the adventure and freedom he cherished.

Throughout his life, Ricky formed many lifelong friendships that brought him immeasurable joy. He enjoyed the laughter, companionship, and countless good times over the years. These friendships meant the world to him and will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

He will be remembered for his generous spirit, sense of humor, gentle strength, and the love he showed to those around him. The memories he created and the love he shared left a lasting impression on so many lives. Ricky will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to his caregiver, Sabrina Lewis, for the exceptional and loving care she gave Ricky. Her devotion to him went beyond words, and the kindness and compassion she showed will always be remembered and deeply appreciated by his family.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date to honor Ricky’s life and bring together family and friends to share memories, celebrate the life he lived, and remember the many ways he touched the hearts of those who loved him. Details will be announced once arrangements are finalized.

Arrangements were made by Neptune Society, https://neptunesociety.com/obituaries/miami-fl/richard-macdonald-13060311.