Frederick Burns Macdonald

Frederick 'Fred' Burns Macdonald, 96, of Sunland, CA., passed away on January 11, 2023, surrounded by loved ones who will forever honor his legacy.
Fred was born in Long Beach, CA., on January 16, 1926, to Archie and Minnie Macdonald. Fred graduated from Long Beach Polytechnic High school in 1944. Before Fred graduated, he was a member of ROTC and Sigma Phi.
Fred is a veteran of WWII and the Korean War. He served honorably in the US Navy. Fred 's duties included serving as a medic (Pharmacist Mate 3rd Class) on the USS Repose. His Naval service had a long and powerful influence on his life. He would often recount his experiences overseas, including weathering Typhoon Ida (September 1945) while aboard USS Repose.
Upon returning to Southern CA after the end of WWII, Fred met his future wife, Phyllis Schermerhorn. They were married on March 19, 1950 in Santa Monica, CA. Their family was established soon after.
Fred soon found a career as a mortician and eventually became Superintendent at Forest Lawn Memorial-Parks & Mortuary. His career at Forest Lawn lasted over four decades and he continues to be warmly remembered by current day employees.
Outside of their careers, Fred and Phyllis were deeply involved with their church, Foothill Christian in La Crescenta, CA. Never one to shy away from work that needed to be done, Fred wore many hats in support of Foothill Christian. Fred was also a member of Toastmasters and Kiwanis Club of Tropico- Glendale, Ca.
Family was central to Fred and Phyllis. After raising their children, they enjoyed the pleasures of being grandparents and taking part in their grandkids' interest and activities. As time passed, Fred and Phyllis were blessed with the joys of great-grandchildren.
Fred is survived by his three children, Bob Macdonald (Becky), Sharon Joy, and David Macdonald (Linda), six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Fred was preceded in death by his beloved wife of sixty-six years, Phyllis (2016); Son-in-law, Tom Joy; and Parents; Archie and Minnie.