George D. McDonald, of Tarpon Springs, Fla., passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2014. Born and raised in Coaldale, he was an excellent athlete and is still honored in the Panther Valley area for scoring 80 points himself in a basketball game for St. Mary's Catholic School, which remains a CYO record. He graduated from Coaldale High School, lettering in basketball, baseball, and football. A veteran, he served in the National Guard during the Vietnam conflict at Fort Knox, Ky. He worked for many years in the family business, Lewis Insurance Agency in Lansford, but his true passion was music. He was a gifted vocalist, guitarist, and bassist. His career highlights began in the early 1960's with 'The Shantones," (recording "Sheba" on Angela Records in 1963); later in the mid 1960's touring nationally with "Angie & The Strangers"; "The Stangers"; and "The Red Beats". Then in the 1980's teaming up with Bud Wychulis for the "Bud & George" duo, and "The Mudflaps". During the 1990's George founded the oldies revue "Remember When", and more recently reunion shows with "The Shantations" (with former members of The Shantones / Angie & The Citations). He was recently featured in the book/CD box set, Surf Age Nuggets compiled by James Austin. He played with Gary U.S. Bonds and other 50's/60's legends, which highlighted his career. While on American Bandstand he gave a shout out to his then youngest sister Colleen. Most recently George has continued playing in the Tampa area with his son, George Vincent, in the "Saltwater Cowboys" and "The Bayou Boys" every weekend. His voice, talent, and love of music never wavered, and he was proud to pass on this legacy to his son. George was a loving husband, son, father, and brother. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and George McDonald. George is survived by his devoted, beautiful, and loving wife, Donya (Warcholak) McDonald, who filled his life with love and joy; son George Vincent (Debbie) of Spring Hill, Fla.; daughter Julie McDonald of Jim Thorpe; and grandson Jens Salvesen. Also surviving are sisters, Marianne Frazier and Melanie Kling (Steven), both of Tarpon Springs, and Colleen Gieniec of Ridgewood, N.J.; and his beloved brother, Daniel McDonald (Cathy) of Lake Hauto. He was loved by his many nieces and nephews, who appreciated his silly sense of humor and inspiring life stories. Service: Memorial service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 11, 2014, at 11 a.m. from the Skrabak-Parambo Funeral Home, 210 E. Bertsch St., Lansford. Interment will follow at Ss. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Cemetery, Nesquehoning. Visitation will be on Saturday from 10-11 a.m.