Phillip S. McDonald saved Thomas E. Runyon from drowning, Indianapolis, Indiana, January 19, 1968. When Thomas, 7, and a five-year-old boy ventured onto an ice shelf along the bank of a creek, they fell into water 20 feet deep but kept afloat; by holding to the edge of the ice. A third boy flagged McDonald, 20, college student, and reported the situation. From a bridge over the creek, McDonald jumped into the water 25 feet below and was submerged. When he surfaced, he found that Thomas had lost consciousness and the other boy was no longer in sight. Lifting Thomas onto the ice shelf, McDonald climbed out and carried him to the bank. After looking in vain for the other boy, McDonald administered artificial respiration to Thomas and succeeded in reviving him. Thomas recovered after being hospitalized. Police divers recovered the body of the other boy.
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Obituary
Phillip Stephen McDonald, aged 77, passed away on July 25, 2024, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Born on June 5, 1947, in the same city, Phillip led a rich and impactful life, marked by his varied interests and enduring relationships.
Phil graduated from Southport High School and furthered his education at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI).
He served honorably in the Indiana National Guard from 1967 to 1972, where he was recognized for his heroic actions, including a notable incident where he saved a young boy from drowning in Fall Creek. His bravery earned him accolades from the American Red Cross, the Carnegie Hero Fund, and the Indiana National Guard.
Professionally, Phil was known for his dependability and strong work ethic. 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 over 30 years.
Phil’s personal life was filled with joyous activities. He was an avid softball player, a golf enthusiast, and enjoyed traveling with friends. His passion for sports also extended to being a fervent fan of the New York Yankees. His sharp wit, generous spirit, and outgoing nature made him a beloved figure among his extensive circle of friends and family.
He is survived by his wife, Barbara McDonald; daughters, Molly Pearson (Dustin) and Emily Dick; grandchildren, Corey Dick, Sean Pearson, and Evan Pearson; brother, Michael McDonald (Kathy); and sister, Patricia Beidelschies (Steve). Phil was preceded in death by his parents, Hazel and Donald McDonald.