FRESNO, CA (KMJ) – Fresno philanthropist David McDonald has passed away Wednesday at age 69.
Emergency services were called to McDonald’s home Wednesday morning for a medical emergency.
They found McDonald unresponsive at his home, named “Eaglecrest” in Prather.
According to the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, all indications are McDonald died of natural causes.
McDonald was the former owner of Pelco, which he bought in 1987.
The company specialized in security cameras, growing into a multi-billion dollar enterprise over the years.
McDonald was also the chairman of the original Measure “Z” Campaign in 2004, helping renovate the Fresno Chaffee Zoo.
He had most recently donated $400,000 to help fund the unsuccessful Measure P Campaign, to bring more parks to Fresno.
Mayor Lee Brand released the following statement on the passing of David McDonald:
“I am shocked and saddened by the news of the passing of my friend, David McDonald. I had just spoken with Dave recently and was looking forward to working with him in the New Year to help bring our community together. It’s a huge loss for the Central Valley.
“Dave was an exceptional businessman and an even better person who was always willing to give back to his community, and his generosity made a big difference in our quality of life. He was a bold and visionary leader who will never be forgotten and great civic institutions like the Fresno Chaffee Zoo are better now because of him.”
McDonald’s family released the following statement:
DAVID LUPTON McDONALD – NOTICE OF DEATH:
It is with a great deal of sadness and a heavy heart that the family of David
McDonald is announcing his sudden death of natural causes this morning. David was a
true patriot, businessman, philanthropist, and believer of the American spirit and dream.
His great joy was providing his personal support to the many causes that touched his
heart, including The Fresno Chaffee Zoo, both Measure Z campaigns, the 9/11
California Memorial, Toys for Tots, Special Education Days at Pelco, Miss Winkles Pet
Adoption Center, and many, many more.David was born and raised of humble beginnings but was determined to leave
this world a better place because of his life and his contributions. Pelco, the company
he grew into a recognized world leader within its industry is just one testament to his
commitment and success. Aside from family, David leaves behind many friends,
associates, and former employees who he was eternally grateful for their support, trust
and friendship. He will be greatly missed.
The family requests privacy in their time of grief.
Click to listen to the report by KMJ’S Liz Kern:
