Robert Paul Macdonald

Portsmouth, RI - Robert Paul MacDonald (Bob), 68, of Portsmouth, passed away peacefully in Newport Hospital on Saturday, August 2, 2014. Born in Newport, RI on October 14, 1945, he was the son of Cecile (Caron) McKinney of Portsmouth, RI and the late Evan MacDonald. He grew up on McCorrie Lane in Portsmouth, RI. He attended De La Salle Academy and graduated in 1963. In addition, he spent time at Salve Regina and a community college in California. He graduated from the Boston School of Fine Arts. Later, he served our country in the US Army from August 3, 1966 to August 2, 1972 and did a tour of duty in the Vietnam War. Mr. MacDonald previously owned the Gentlemen's Emporium in Portsmouth, RI. He retired this year from his most recent job as a security officer at St. George's private school in Middletown, RI. Besides his mother he is survived by his son, Lochiel MacDonald, grandson, Lochiel MacDonald, and his daughter Rachelle Whatmough and husband, Garyn, of Newport, RI. Other family members include his two brothers, John F. MacDonald and wife Theresa of Middletown and Evan A. MacDonald Jr. and wife Elizabeth, also of Middletown. Robert had a step-sister, Johann Upham of Warwick, RI and a step-brother Ronald McKinney of Orlando, FL. Mr. MacDonald was a passionate reader and loved his close network of family and friends. He particularly enjoyed playing and spending time with his children and grandson. He was the best "Grand-Bob" in the world! He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. The funeral was private, but there will be a celebration of life on Sunday for close friends and family. Please contact the family for further details.In lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations to the Newport Boys and Girls Club, 95 Church Street, Newport, RI 02840.