Peter J. (Pj) Mcdonald

On Tuesday, May 16th at 11:00 am, PJ's funeral service will be live-streamed via the following link:
https://www.eaglehill.school/landing-pages/in-memoriam

HOLDEN - It is with tremendous sadness we announce the sudden passing of Dr. Peter J. McDonald (PJ) of Holden on May 9, 2023. PJ was born in Boston on May 31, 1968, and was the son of the late Charles and Jane (Currivan) McDonald. He is survived by his loving wife, Kathryn (Dubzinski) McDonald and three adoring children, Griffin, Reagan and Tucker, all of whom were the center of his world. In addition, PJ is survived by his brother Todd McDonald and his wife Julie, brother Marty, and sister Kelle Mills and her husband Stephen. He is also survived by several loving nieces and nephews as well as many, many lifelong friends. Once PJ met Kathryn, he immediately became an integral part of the Dubzinski Family and is survived by his in-laws, Walter and Irene (St. John) Dubzinski, brother-in-law Michael Dubzinski and his wife Erin, and brother-in-law Steven Dubzinski.

An accomplished student, PJ graduated from St. John's High School in Shrewsbury, MA, received his Undergraduate Degree from Purdue University, his Master's Degree in Education from Cambridge College, and his Doctorate Degree in Education from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst. PJ spent his entire life connected to Hardwick MA and the Eagle Hill School. He began his career in Admissions and later became the Head of School, a position he held for the past 25 years. During his tenure at Eagle Hill, PJ's vision and work ethic in conjunction with his tremendous team, helped transform a small boarding school tucked away in Western Mass into a world-renowned learning institution. In his role as Head of School, PJ has touched the lives of thousands around the world and was always in awe of the amazing accomplishments of the students and faculty at Eagle Hill. He always felt blessed to be part of such an amazing learning environment.

PJ will be best remembered for his devotion and unwavering commitment to his family. He loved talking about his children, and never missed an event - whether it was a lacrosse game at Dean College, a basketball game at Middlebury College, or most recently the spring football game at the University of Connecticut. He was happiest watching his children participate in the activities they loved, always with his wife, Kathryn by his side - unless, of course, he had worked his way down to the sidelines for a "better view."

PJ was always willing to assist in any way possible and never said "no" to anyone in need. His generosity knew no bounds - PJ was a giver in every sense of the word and helped countless people over his short 54 years and never expected anything in return. We do, however, want to thank the many people that have reached out over the past few days to share their special stories.

PJ was an active member of both the Hardwick and Holden communities. He was active on various local boards, most notably, Anna Maria College, Be Like Brit, and Country Bank. He had also graciously extended his professional expertise and knowledge to other boards around the country, wanting nothing more to watch individuals and corporations succeed.

An avid golfer, PJ enjoyed playing at Tatnuck Country Club and any other course that has 18 (or 19) holes. In the summertime, you could always find a bright smile on his face while sitting on York Harbor Beach in York, Maine with his family and friends. To say he will be missed by so many is an understatement of the greatest magnitude.

Calling hours are scheduled for Monday, May 15th from 4-8 PM at Miles Funeral Home,1158 Main St., Holden. A Mass of Christian burial will take place on Tuesday, May 16th at 11:00 AM at St. Mary's Church, 114 Princeton St, Jefferson. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Peter J. McDonald Endowment Scholarship Fund c/o Eagle Hill School, 242 Old Petersham Road, Hardwick, MA 01037.

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