Donald Patrick McCadden

Donald Patrick McCadden October 19, 1935 - March 30, 2025 Born to Lorna (Jendro) and Walter Edward McCadden, Donald "Pat" McCadden was an inquisitive soul who sought out the beauty and wonder in life. Whether through the brushstrokes of his oil paintings, the melodies of classical music, or time spent wandering museums, Don immersed himself in the arts. There were few moments in his life when he wasn't humming a tune-Beethoven, Mozart, or something of his own creation-and he was always ready to test those around him on their musical knowledge. As a boy, Don loved building model airplanes and watching them soar. That childhood passion for flight, combined with a keen mechanical mind, led him to enlist in the United States Air Force in 1954. He trained in Illinois and Georgia before being stationed in Kisarazu, Japan, where he spent two years as an instructor of aviation mechanics. Don was proud of his service and often shared stories of his time abroad, encouraging those around him to embrace the beauty of other cultures and perspectives. While in Japan, Don nurtured his lifelong love of photography, capturing images of planes, mountains, and daily life on the base. It was there, watching the Kisarazu Sailing Club, that he discovered another great passion, sailing. Upon returning home to Minnesota, he built, by hand, the first of two sailboats. The second, a 29-foot seaworthy vessel, became his beloved summer home-a floating cabin moored in Lake City, MN. Don cherished the gentle rhythm of life on the water; the lapping waves, the clanging of rigging, the calls of morning birds. It was his sanctuary. During the colder months, Don turned to painting. A dedicated oil painter, he spent countless hours at the canvas, never deterred by the need to wipe away and start again. His patience, vision, and devotion to his craft were defining qualities-in art and in life. Don passed peacefully, surrounded by his children. His loss leaves a deep ache in the hearts of his family and friends, who will miss his gentle smile, creativity, and unwavering love. Don was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Lorna (Jendro) McCadden; stepmother, Vera McCadden; and his brother, Michael (Georgette) McCadden. Don is survived by his children, Diana (Jim) LaValle, Michael (Michelle) McCadden and Sarah (Eric) Evens; brother, Greg Carlton M.D. (Peter Certain); six grandchildren, Aaron, Constanza, Jack, Kylie, Julia, and Harrison, and great-grandchildren, Finn and Marcy. A Funeral Mass will be held for Don on Thursday, May 15th 2025 at 2:00 PM with visitation starting at 1 PM at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 835 2nd Ave. NW, New Brighton, MN. Celebration of Don's Life will follow from 5-8 PM at 9 Mile Gallery, 7777 Washington Ave S, Edina, MN.

Tributes

Donald Patrick McCadden

October 19, 1935 - March 30, 2025

We are here for you 24x7

Call us and get help now

(612) 377-2203