Tharel "Shawn" McDonald's Obituary
The melody is sadder these days for the long and winding road ended for Tharel “Shawn” McDonald November 19, 2020.
Born on May 15, 1953 to Tharel George and Patty Caroline McDonald. Shawn and his older sister Martha (Cecil) Sherrer grew up in the close knit community of Magna, UT where everyone seemed to be a cousin and cousins like Drew and Todd McDermaid were dubbed as brothers. Family was all around and thus Shawn learned from a young age that everyone is connected. He graduated from Cyprus High School class of 1971, joined the Air Force and studied at the University of Utah. Most of this lifetime was spent living in Magna and West Valley City, UT.
Shawn’s marriage to Jan Youngdell-Hare created his greatest accomplishment, his two amazing children. Through his children the delight of being a grandfather blossomed. His beautiful boy S. Drew McDonald married Lisa and brought into the family CJ (long term girlfriend Jada Schiller) and Madison McDonald. Shawn’s daughter Michelle (ma belle), married Daryl Romrell and blessed the family with Chandler (fiancé Nicole Toledo), Chanel (fiancé Day May), and Paige Romrell.
With an infectious smile and bewitching banter Shawn melted anyone's icy heart and drown fears away. He would never let you carry that weight alone. He insisted the load be put right on him. His house was always considered our house. The door was always open in what seemed to be Alice’s restaurant. He would give you the shirt off his back, the food from his table, anything to see your travels in this world lighter. Friendships quickly turned into family with love and positivity being king.
Some would say he was a dreamer reaching for stardust. Yet, in reality he was a philosopher, theorist, and thinker with conversations often making it through the night. So many moments he gave himself completely and honestly. Being a music man he spoke his heart in lyrics and soothed the soul while his guitar gently weeped.
In his Mr. Bojangles years, Shawn never stopped learning, growing and changing. He fought reverently for Utah Patients for Cannabis and Natural Choices. His dying wish is that you continue the fight. Do not cry or send flowers Shawn will always be in hearts of those who crossed his path. Let his soul be an inspiration to fight for truth in the world. Be the change you want to see in life. At this time there will be no service but a celebration of life will be determined when American pie can be enjoyed by all who knew him.
Shawn’s kids, grandkids, sister, brothers, nieces, grand nephews, cousins, friends will miss him dearly and wish to the blackbird that your wings have healed and you have learned to fly with angels. Golden slumbers… this is your song.
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Share a story where Tharel's kindness touched your heart.
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