Charles William McDonald

Charles McDonald (Chuck), a native Lakelander, passed away in Lakeland on July 24, 2026. Chuck, as a child, traveled to many places due to his dad being in the Air Force. After graduating from LSU, he visited his parents in Izmir, Türkiye and began his life-long career with the Army/Air Force Exchange (AAFES) in Izmir, Türkiye. He was transferred to Giessen, Germany, where he met the love of his life, Pam, a civilian, working for the government. Their jobs took them to many places in the U.S., Germany and Türkiye.

Chuck was an emergency essential civilian providing support to the military during Desert Storm. AAFES then selected him to be the lead civilian in organizing support for several Bright Star Operations held in Egypt.

They later transferred to Tampa and then to Lakeland to be with family and friends.

His passion for trains enabled him to author three published books on locomotives. Chuck had a lifelong passion for collecting and reading military history books and firearms. He enjoyed sharing his knowledge with friends and family.

He is survived by his wife, Pam, and their standard poodle, Sherlock.

A funeral service will be held at Heath Funeral Chapel on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 11am with a reception to follow.