Michael McDonald

Obituary Michael J. McDonald DMD

On Saturday, August 25th 2018 we lost our husband, father and best friend, Michael J. McDonald DMD.  He was born in Santa Ana in 1952, the first son of Betty Jean Roberts and James Edward McDonald. He was taken from us at the age of 66.  During high school, he spent time working in the orthodontic office of Dr. George Georgieff, with whom he maintained a life-long friendship. Mike proudly graduated from UCLA with a degree in biology before moving to Philadelphia with his new wife Elizabeth Ann Kingsland, to attend the University of Pennsylvania Dental School.  Mike and Beth then returned to Southern California to begin his residency in Orthodontia at his alma mater, UCLA.  Upon completion of his training, Mike started his professional career back in his home town, where he practiced Orthodontics from 1983 until he passed away.  Mike and Beth raised two loving children, Sean and Cody.  Following the passing of his beloved wife, Beth, in 2013, Mike was fortunate to meet, and marry his new love Lynda Olsen.   Lynda, Sean and Cody sat continuous vigil at Mike’s bedside over the past months of his life.

Mike was an outstanding orthodontist, who loved his profession and all of his patients. His expertise  helped to make Orange County the smile capital of California.  Outside of his flourishing orthodontic practice, Mike had many interests which consumed his time.  He was an unsurpassed history buff, as well as an avid numismatic.  He combined these two hobbies by collecting old coins from empires long past.   Mike’s enthusiasm of coin collecting poured over to his friends, who all became coin collectors with Mike as their Guru.  His other hobbies included golf, friendships, and everything UCLA.

It is very difficult to count the number people who considered Mike as one of their closest friends.  He did not have many acquaintances, but many, many friends.  He made his friends feel as if their problems were his problems and was never shy in regards to sharing his opinions, which he considered as the right answer to every question.   Mike was a loyal caring friend, selfless in his desire to help others.  He was usually the center of attention, drawing a crowd with his stories, smile, and robust laughter.  He was known for his compassion and courageous spirit.  His illness was brief and he passed away following a valiant struggle for life.

We miss you Mikie.

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