Edmund “Edd” James McDonald, 47, of Park, Kansas, passed away on February 21, 2026. He was born on January 12, 1979, in Dublin, Ireland, the son of James and Geraldine (Murphy) McDonald.
Edd was raised in Ireland with strong faith, a love of machinery, and a gift for storytelling that he carried proudly with him to Kansas. He graduated from Salesian Agriculture School in Pallaskenry in 2000 with a degree in Agricultural Mechanics. Edd could fix just about anything with an engine — and if he couldn’t, he’d figure it out.
On September 4, 2010, Edd was united in marriage to the love of his life, Elizabeth “Liz” Kay McDonald, at the Claremont Inn in Stratton, Colorado. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, laughter, and horsepower.
Early in his career, Edd worked in harvesting, as a diesel mechanic at Bucklin Tractor (BTI), and as a truck driver. He later became a foreman with Sporer Land Development, where he worked for 14 years. In 2013, his career was cut short by a tragic accident that resulted in a traumatic brain injury. What followed was a long and determined recovery in Colorado. Through prayer, perseverance, and the unwavering support of family, friends, and neighbors, Edd made his way back home — where he belonged.
Though short-term memory challenges prevented him from returning to full-time work, Edd never stopped working in the ways that mattered. With his beloved Kubota tractor, he mowed lawns, cleared snow, graded driveways, and especially took pride in helping at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. If there were millings to spread or a parking lot to smooth, Edd was there — often before anyone else. Being useful brought him joy.
Edd was a faithful member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Park, the Knights of Columbus, the Rodeo Club, the NRA, and Ducks Unlimited. As a boy in Ireland, he was a proud Sea Scout — a title he never quite outgrew. He enjoyed playing cards and games, watching CSI and crime dramas, history and educational programs, and traveling whenever possible. Horses — especially Clydesdales — held a special place in his heart.
Above all, Edd was a devoted husband, father, and Papa. He was overjoyed at the thought of soon adopting his grandchildren and sharing with them the McDonald name. His pride, love, and willingness to help others defined him more than any job title ever could.
He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Kay McDonald of Park; his parents, Jim and Geraldine McDonald of Arklow, Ireland; his children, Bobbi-Ann (Malachi) Lewis, Elissa Roberts, Evan Roberts, and Rose Roberts; his cherished granddaughters, Ravin and Sabrina; his brothers, John (Cecelia) McDonald of Arklow, Ireland, and Colum (Kristina) McDonald of Perth, Australia; his sister, Carol (Paul) O’Hart of Drogheda, Ireland; along with many beloved brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends. Also surviving are children of his heart, Collin, Scott, and Jessa. He was preceded in death by his grandparents.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Gove County Elder Care, Knights of Columbus, or for Mass Intentions, and may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12th Street, WaKeeney, Kansas 67672.
Condolences and memories may be shared at www.schmittfuneral.com.
Slán abhaile, Edd. May the roads of heaven be smooth, the engines always turn over, and may there always be a Kubota waiting for you.