Charles E. McDonald, 85

Charles E. McDonald, 85, of Helena, passed away peacefully at home from natural causes on Aug. 20, 2015.

“Chuck”, son of James Harvey Cox and Hettie Brink, was born in Fairbanks, Alaska. He lived there for three years, then moved with his mother and older siblings to southern California. Chuck’s mother married Paul Cowan McDonald a short time later, and Paul adopted Chuck and his siblings.

Chuck was the loving husband of Betty Jean Mergenthaler for 43 years. She preceded Chuck in death, passing away on Aug. 20, 2010 — exactly five years to the date of Chuck’s death.

Chuck and Betty lived in Kalispell and owned the McDonald School of Music from 1968 until 1978. While living there, he taught guitar classes and individual classes at Flathead Community College. In 1980, Chuck and Betty relocated to Helena and owned and operated High Country Plumbing until their retirement in 2000. Chuck never fully retired from his love of music, however, and he continued playing and teaching guitar from his home for several years. He was very proud of his guitar students. He also played in multiple bands in both California and Montana.

He is survived by his children, Chuck Jr., Christina, Thomas, Edward and Dennis; also by his stepsons, David and Mary Mergenthaler of Kalispell, Roger and Marti Mergenthaler of Helena, and Lynn and Judy Mergenthaler of Kalispell; as well as numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by Betty and her daughter, Claudette Cooper (Jim) of Unionville.

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Chuck’s life will be held at the family home in Helena at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3.