Lockport City Council Honors Alderman Patrick McDonald After His Passing

The Lockport City Council held a poignant tribute on Wednesday to honor the late Alderman Patrick McDonald, who passed away on October 24, 2023, following an 18-month battle with cancer. McDonald, aged 67, was remembered for his service to the community and his profound impact on the council.

A vase of blue and white flowers accompanied a hat from Andromeda Technology Solutions, the company McDonald co-founded, placed behind his nameplate on a makeshift dais at the Lockport Township office. During the Council’s Committee of the Whole meeting, a photo of McDonald was projected, serving as a reminder of his legacy and contributions.

Mayor Steven Streit expressed deep sorrow over McDonald’s unexpected passing, despite the council being aware of his illness. “Pat wasn’t just a colleague; he was a friend to all of us,” Streit remarked. He described McDonald as someone he could confide in and valued for his thoughtful opinions. “Pat was always very thoughtful and methodical, and he will be missed greatly by all of us,” he added.

The news of McDonald’s death came as a shock to his colleagues. “I knew he was sick, but this still came as a big surprise,” Streit said. He extended condolences to McDonald’s family, emphasizing the loss felt by the community.

McDonald joined the Lockport City Council in November 2022, filling the vacancy left by the late Alderman Larry Schreiber. Just six months ago, he successfully won a special election to complete the remaining two years of Schreiber’s term. A long-time resident of Lockport, McDonald lived in the area for over 40 years with his wife, JoAnn. Together, they raised three children—Shannon, Patrick Jr., and Kevin—and were proud grandparents to seven grandchildren.

A visitation for McDonald is scheduled for October 28, 2023, from 14:00 to 19:00 at O’Neil Funeral Home in Lockport, followed by a chapel service. Mayor Streit has stated he will appoint an interim alderman to fill McDonald’s seat within 60 days, as the community begins to navigate this significant loss.