Thomas John McDonald of Coronado, California, born February 5, 1990, died November 30, 2011, while hospitalized for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS).

Tommy was born in Oregon City, Oregon, and spent the first four years of his life in West Linn and Lake Oswego, Oregon, before his family moved to San Diego, California, in 1994.  Born with cerebral palsy, Tommy could not walk or talk, but his determination, bravery and courage inspired his family, friends, schoolmates, and everyone he met. Tommy loved music and swimming in his lifejacket.  Tommy adored his mother and never tired of gazing into her eyes.  Tommy particularly enjoyed riding in the car with his mother while she described the scenery and sang his favorite songs. His angelic face and big, blue eyes lit up whenever his brother entered the room. He held tightly to his daddy’s hand when in stress or discomfort.  Tommy is survived by his parents, Kevin and Linda McDonald, of Coronado, California, his brother, Kevin, a student at the University of Oregon, and his grandmother, Loa McDonald, of Portland, Oregon.  He was preceded in death by grandparents, Paulinus McDonald and Ted and Marie Cole, who now hold him close in heaven.  Tommy’s Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, December 10, at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Apostles Catholic Church, 6300 N. Meridian Rd. in Meridian, Idaho; interment to follow at the Holy Apostles columbarium.  Remembrances may be left online for the family at www.AccentFuneral.com   Services are under the direction of Accent Funeral Home, Meridian.

Condolences:

Sender's Name: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
I'm a stranger to you and never knew of Tommy until I read his story in the Oregonian obituary. I re-read it several times in awe. I imagined him looking into his mother's eyes without end, she singing his favorite songs, and he clutching his father's hand for comfort. The love between you confirms that life is beautiful and restores my faith in humanity. It inspires me to no end. Tommy saved me. Thank you. With admiration. Nick Albrecht

Sender's Name: Angela Dixon
I did not have the pleasure to meet your son or family however I know how difficult it is to lose a special young person and want you to know your family is in my thoughts and prayers! May God Bless & Comfort You All During This Most Difficult Time!

Sender's Name: Maureen
God Bless you all at this time of sorrow. As you said, Tommy was an inspiration to all who knew him. It was always a delight to visit him. My heart goes out to you. You and Linda and KC were also an inspiration and you had great devotion to Tommy. He was truly blessed to be your son and brother. May the Lord bless you and keep you in his care at this time. Love, Maureen