Merle 'Doc' McDonald

Merle 'Doc' McDonald, 99, passed away peacefully Wednesday, June 17, 2026, in Bonita Springs, Florida. Born May 10, 1927, in Findlay Ohio, Merle was the beloved son of Walter and Martha McDonald. After graduating from high school, Merle proudly served in the United States Army Medical Corps and was stationed at Walter Reed Army Medical Hospital. Following his military service, he attended The Ohio State University, where he earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery. In 1952, Merle married the love of his life, Thelma 'Timmie' Neikirk of Republic, Ohio. Together they built a partnership that spanned decades and served as the foundation of a close-knit family. After Merle's graduation from dental school, the couple moved to Elyria, Ohio in 1955, where he established his dental practice. For more than 46 years, Dr. McDonald cared for his patients with skill and compassion until his retirement in 2001. Known throughout the community as the 'Singing Dentist', Doc's talents extended far beyond his dental practice. A gifted saxophonist and singer, he joined the 'Biz Grove Orchestra' and was a dedicated member for many years. His passion for the swing band eventually led him to take over the leadership of the group, which became the 'Doc McDonald Orchestra'. Through countless performances he brought joy to audiences and formed lasting friendships through his love of music. When he wasn't caring for patients or performing with his orchestra, Doc could be found on the golf course. He loved the game of golf and cherished the many memorable rounds he played with family and friends. Above all, Doc was devoted to his family. He was preceded in death by his wife and their son, Dr. Scott McDonald. He is survived by son, Brian McDonald of Winter Haven, Florida; daughters, Kara Golden (Timothy) of Elyria and Stacy McDonald Monteith (Stewart) of Bonita Springs, Florida; daughter-in-law, Linda McDonald of Elyria; granddaughters, Alana Haws (Keith) and Kimberly Wasson (Danny); cherished great-grandchildren, Celia and Wallace Haws, and Wesley and Sadie Wasson; and sister, Jeanette Cameron of Findlay, Ohio. Doc will be remembered for his warm smile, sense of humor, musical talents and devotion to family and friends. As a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, dentist, musician, veteran and friend, he touched countless lives and left behind a legacy of love and joy that will endure for generations. Online condolences may be shared at dignitymemorial.com