Richard Harry MacDonald passed away February 16, 2026, in Helena, Montana at St. Peter's Hospital with family members at his side at the end of his life here on earth. He was blessed with many family and friends visiting him, saying their goodbyes, and telling him how much he was loved and will be missed. Richard was a very loved Father, Brother, Grandfather, Great Grandfather and Friend to many.

Richard was born in Hardin, Montana on December 7, 1945, to Ruby (Lane) and Donald MacDonald. He was the third born son following the twins Sandy and Randy. His sister Donna was born 14 months later. The family lived in Cooke City, MT until they moved to East Helena in September 1952. ln 1958 another sister, Nelma, joined the family.

Richard worked at the East Helena Smelter, started a scrap iron business with brother Randy and was a Heavy Equipment Operator in Texas, Idaho, and Montana for many years. He later volunteered his time for several years with Karl Meagher soliciting and collecting donations for the Prickly Pear Fireworks 4th of July show.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, his son Carl MacDonald and brother Randy MacDonald. He is survived by his two daughters Kimberly Vinson and Connie MacDonald, his son Todd Redd, siblings Sandy MacDonald, Donna MacDonald and Nelma (Shane) Mosier; stepbrothers Jerry and Don Cloud; 8 grandchildren: Kyle (Shawna) Stipcich, Heather (Keven) Patzer, Katie (Alex) Borsberry, Tanner Hoy, Amanda Johnston, Shelbi (Jeremy) Bercier, Cameron McLaughlin and Carla MacDonald. Fourteen great grandchildren with a 15th due in May. Richard is also survived by his ex-wife and lifelong friend Jo (Leonard) Wallis and many nieces/nephews.

Richard loved to fish, hunt, pan for gold, camp, and play poker at the VFW along with playing the machines. God blessed us with a tender hearted, loving and forever friend. He fought his final battle hard like the stubborn Scotsman he was, and he will be remembered for his "heart of gold, larger than life persona and hands of steel."

There will be a Potluck Celebration of Richard's life for family and friends February 27, 2026, 3:00 p.m. in the basement of the East Helena V.F.W.

The family wishes to express our thanks to St. Peter's Hospital nurses, doctors, and Hospice who helped him with his final days, and family and friends who visited or called him making his journey a little easier. You will be greatly missed and may you Rest in Peace.