Robert Donald Macdonald

Robert Donald Macdonald, 97, of Rancho Santa Fe, CA passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on Saturday, September 2, 2023. Robert was born August 1, 1926, in Los Angeles to Ranald Macdonald and Marion Hardy Morriss. Raised in Rancho Santa Fe, he attended The Ranch School and San Dieguito High where he enjoyed participating in many extracurricular activities with his brothers and friends.

Robert left high school early to attend Stanford University and from there, he joined the Navy during the end of World War II. As a naval communications officer, he found his passion for electronics and problem solving.

Robert spent most of his career at Hughes Aircraft Corporation where he was a missile systems engineer. For over 35 years, he worked on various missile design and quality control programs starting in 1950 with the Falcon in Tucson AZ and eventually becoming the Vice President of the Missile Division Group in Canoga Park, CA. The relationships Robert forged at Hughes remained strong throughout his lifetime and were strengthened during trips and annual reunions with his colleagues/friends. Robert had a thirst for learning and problem solving and even after his retirement in 1988 he was actively involved with the AAAS, current events and constant reading of his scientific journals and magazines.

A passion for travel and adventure was instilled in Robert by his father and over the years he traveled extensively throughout the world for both business and pleasure. After retirement when they had more time, he and his wife, Sharon, enjoyed many memorable trips. An avid sailor and boater, Robert owned several boats over his lifetime and loved to share stories of times spent on the water with family and friends. Robert was very physically active over his lifetime, enjoying hiking, annual fishing trips, tennis and of course lots and lots of GOLF!

Robert was a man of few words, but the words he spoke were often hilarious and sometimes profound. He was legendary for his quick and intelligent wit, which could sometimes be caustic, but was usually spot on and evoked belly laughs from those lucky enough to be nearby. He will be missed…

Robert was a loving son, brother, father, husband and friend. He was preceded in death by his younger brothers, John and Ranald. Robert leaves behind his wife (and travel companion) of 46 years, Sharon Macdonald. He is also survived by his son Quentin Chapman Macdonald (Linda) of Walnut Creek, CA; Craig Morton of Los Angeles, CA; daughter Cindi Darling of Lompoc, CA; daughter Heather Macdonald LaMarre of Pembroke, MA; daughter Linda Sauer (Dean) of Carlsbad, CA; daughter Stephanie Palm (Mike) of Carlsbad, CA and ten grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He also leaves behind 3 children from his previous marriage, Lem Shattuck (Cheryl) of Warrensburg, MO; Mark Shattuck and his companion Mildred of San Gregorio, CA; and Melissa Shattuck of Falmouth, ME.