Richard A. McDonald, 85, of Taylor Ridge, Illinois, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, surrounded by his wife and sons.

Richard was born on October 29, 1940, in Moline, Illinois, the son of Edgar and Frances (Whimpey) McDonald. He graduated from Rock Island High School in 1958. Following graduation, he proudly enlisted in the United States Army, where he served for over three years as a tank mechanic and achieved the rank of SP/4 (E4).

On September 11, 1964, Richard married Maxine Cope in Rock Island, Illinois. Together, they built a beautiful life and family. Richard dedicated 34 years of civil service to the Rock Island Arsenal, retiring in 1996 as a Quality Assurance Supervisor.

An avid sports enthusiast, Richard was a devoted NASCAR fan who traveled to many tracks across the country over the years. He also enjoyed watching football, basketball, and golf. His greatest joy, however, came from supporting his sons. He never missed their sporting events and dedicated many years to coaching Little League baseball for Taylor Ridge and Reyolds schools within the Rockridge District 300. The family also cherished decades of memories boating on the Mississippi River with their extended families. In his retirement years, Richard loved riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle alongside his family.

He is survived by his wife, Maxine; his sons, David (Brandi) McDonald of East Peoria, IL, and Daniel (Shannon) McDonald of Tipton, IA; and his sisters, Mary Fox of Hamilton, MT, and Elizabeth Ill of Rock Island, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Robert McDonald.

Private graveside services with military honors will be held for the family at Reynolds Cemetery. Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Milan is assisting the family. Condolences may be left online by signing Richard’s guestbook at www.wheelanpressly.com.