The members of the New York City Police Department Emerald Society Pipes and Drums wish to offer their heartfelt condolences to the Family of Detective Steven McDonald as well as the entire Law Enforcement Community. Steven has gone home to be with God and we will miss him. He is survived by his wife Patti Ann and son Conor.
On July 12, 1986 Steven was shot in Central Park and has been paralyzed ever since. His wife Patti Ann was pregnant at the time of the shooting with their son Conor. Conor followed in his Dad’s footsteps and joined the NYPD in 2010 and has risen through the ranks, attaining the rank of Detective and Sergeant in the same year.
Steven remained with the NYPD and attained the rank of Detective 1st Grade. He was also an Ambassador for the NYPD, giving speeches and counseling troubled children. Detective Benevolent Association President Michael Palladino said, “Steven was an exceptional human being who should not be defined by the shooting that paralyzed him, but by what he accomplished in life after it happened." Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association President Pat Lynch described Steven as “the most courageous and forgiving man I have ever known.”
Just eight months after the shooting, Steven McDonald forgave the young man that had shot him and altered his life forever. He often credited the decision to forgive with the sense of peace he enjoyed, his success and his long life that in the end was not long enough.
All of us that knew and loved him can find comfort in knowing that Steven now enjoys a special place in heaven.
Funeral details as follows: Viewing:
Location: St Agnes Parish Center / 99 North Village Avenue / Rockville Center, NY 11570
Wednesday January 11, 2017 2-4 & 7-9 and Thursday January 12, 2017 2-4 & 7-9
Mass of Christian Burial: 9:30 @ St Patrick’s Cathedral
Fifth Ave. between 51st and 50th Streets / New York, NY 10022
Internment: Holy Rood Cemetery / 111 Old Country Rd., Westbury, NY 11590
