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Wallace A. “Pete” MacDonald, Scio

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Wallace A. “Pete” MacDonald – 86- passed away July 23, 2022 surrounded by his loved ones. 

Born June 23, 1936 in Farmington, CT, Pete had an early affinity for agriculture that was fostered by his work with dairy cows.  This love of farming led him to major in animal science/agricultural education at U-Conn where he obtained his Master’s degree.  This is also where Pete met the love of his life, Kathleen (nee Daley). 

Alfred became their home in 1960 at the conclusion of their honeymoon as Pete had a job waiting for him as a professor of dairy science at Alfred Ag Tech (now Alfred State College).  This is where they made their home and raised their three children, Dan (Jessie) MacDonald, Tim (Donna) MacDonald, and Patricia (Alan) Eshelman on the landmark EIEIO farm.  The farm set the stage where his six grandchildren (Anna, Erica, Olivia, Aidan, James & Benjamin) climbed on the hay bales, found new kittens, and listened to “Bampa’s” lessons. 

He is also survived by his sister Anne Jednorowicz, along with many nieces and nephews.  Pete is pre-deceased by his sisters Mary Guild, Muriel Judd, and Dossy Colevecchio. 

Pete was known for his treasured flock of sheep, his skill with knitting needles, his passion for education, and his quick opinion.  He loved to sing to his favorite musicals, kick up his heels to a lively tune, and arrange flower bouquets for the church.  

Throughout his life, Pete was involved in many board positions, including the New York State School Board, Rural Schools Association, Empire State Sheep Producers, and the New York State BOCES School Board.  He also was an active 4-H leader and livestock and dairy judge.

The family of Wallace A. “Pete” MacDonald will receive friends on Tuesday from 4:00 PM until  6:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday at 11:00 AM at St. Jude’s Church on the SUNY Campus, reception to follow.  A private burial with immediate family will follow on Thursday at Alfred-Rural Cemetery. 

Pete’s family request is that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Pete’s name to the CCE Allegany County 4-H Program, 5435 County Road 48, Belmont, NY 14813 or to the Bolivar–Richburg WEE Center, 100 School St., Bolivar, NY  14715.  Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com

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