In Memoriam: George Butler McDonald Jr., MD (September 13, 1937 - January 26, 2026)

George Butler McDonald Jr, MD

Born September 13, 1937, in Little Rock, Arkansas, and died from complications of pneumonia in Poulsbo, Washington, on January 26, 2026 at 88 years old.

George grew up in Richland, Washington, where his mother, Alline, was an OBGYN nurse, inspired young George's deep well of compassion to pursue a life in medical care.

After graduation from the University of Washington medical school with his MD, he practiced as a family practitioner in Grandview, WA near Yakima, for a number of years and then returned to the university to get a residency in radiology, specializing in nuclear medicine. 
He joined the medical staff of GHC in 1978 and established the Department of Nuclear Medicine with Elma Ferrer as the eventual lead technologist.
His mentor, Professor of Nuclear Medicine, Tom Rudd later joined GHC and they ran the section for many years.

George was the Chief of Radiology at Central Hospital for 5 years, from 1987-1991.

George had a love of life; he chose to retire in Indianola Washington instead of Paris where he listened to jazz, created Fused Glass and enjoyed his red wines(cab Franc) and bourbons. 

He is survived by his two daughters, Molly and Maureen McDonald; a granddaughter, Charlotte Kilborn; and three goats named Lucky Pete, Vincent Van Goat, and Emma. 
His wife Barbara preceded him January 12th 2024.