Orville D. (OD) McDonald

Our beloved one-in-a million father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and friend has passed from this world on October 11, 2014. Born December 31, 1922, in Wynona, OK, Orville, affectionately known as OD, was orphaned, along with his three older brothers, at an early age and raised with two of his brothers at Oklahoma Baptist Children's Home in Oklahoma City. There he met his future wife, Bettye. OD served in World War II and received a Presidential appointment to the United States Naval Academy. After leaving the Academy due to an injury, he attended Colorado State University and University of Oklahoma where he received his law degree. After serving as counsel in Japan during the Korean Conflict, OD decided to become a businessman and he, his wife, Bettye, and their daughter moved to the growing city of Albuquerque. There he became a successful entrepreneur and started many businesses, ultimately becoming Westland Corp. OD stayed actively involved in his company, coming to the office every day until this last illness. He was widely known throughout the community as one of the most moral and ethical individuals in business. OD enjoyed his life, playing cards with his gin buddies at Canyon club, betting the ponies at Downs at Albuquerque and playing blackjack at Sandia Casino. OD is predeceased by his wife of 49 years, Bettye; his parents, Frank and Rose McDonald; his brothers, Johnny, Dewey, and Tom; and his best friend, Lucille Fallen. He is survived by his daughter, Kathi and her husband Boyd; his granddaughter, Beth and grandson, Mark; and his three great-grandchildren who were the lights of his life, Kelsey, Gage, and Trey. He is also survived by five nieces, Delores, Sandy, Jane, DeeAnn, and JoAnn; and three nephews, Charles, Lee and Mike. We are a small group but we've always been and always will be "McDonald Strong." The family would like to thank his friends for their support and especially Nona Enloe, his housekeeper of 20 years, for her love, devotion and care. At OD's request, there will be no funeral services or memorials. Cremation has taken place. Those wishing to honor OD may do so by making donations in his name to Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children at obhc.org. FRENCH - Wyoming 7121 Wyoming Blvd. NE (505) 823-9400