Carnegie Hero Phillip S. McDonald, 77, died on July 25, 2024, in Indianapolis.
McDonald was born on June 5, 1947, in Indianapolis to Donald and Hazel McDonald.
McDonald received the Carnegie Medal after he saved a 7-year-old boy from drowning in Indianapolis on Jan. 19, 1968. The 7-year-old and another boy, 5, ventured onto an ice shelf along the bank of a creek when they fell into water 20 feet deep. They managed to stay afloat and held to the edge of the ice. A third boy flagged McDonald, who was a college student at the time. From a bridge over the creek, McDonald jumped into the water 25 feet below and submerged. When he surfaced, he found that the 7-year-old boy had lost consciousness and the other boy was no longer in sight. Lifting the boy onto the ice shelf, McDonald climbed out and carried him to the bank. After he looked in vain for the other boy, McDonald administered artificial respiration to the 7-year-old and succeeded in reviving him.
McDonald served in the Indiana National Guard from 1967 to 1972, where he was recognized for his heroic actions. His bravery, beyond the Carnegie Medal, earned him accolades from the American Red Cross and the National Guard.
McDonald was known for his dependability and strong work ethic. After he earned his education at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, he spent 14 years as a mail carrier with the United States Postal Service before venturing into entrepreneurship as the owner and operator of McDonald Trucking for 30 years.
He was an avid softball player, golf enthusiast, and enjoyed traveling with friends. He was described as having a sharp wit, generous spirit, and outgoing nature that made him a beloved figure among his friends and family.
He is survived by his wife, Barbara McDonald; daughters, Molly Pearson and Emily Dick; grandchildren, Corey Dick, Sean Pearson, and Evan Pearson; brother, Michael McDonald; and sister, Patricia Beidelschies.