Oct. 24, 1948 – Sept. 6, 2023

The best of the best, Kirk Stewart MacDonald, passed away on Sept. 6 at the age of 74. 

Kirk was born in Glendale on Oct. 24, 1948 to Bruce and Phyllis MacDonald. He grew up playing Little League and getting into as much trouble as possible with his younger brother Gary. Together with many members of the extended MacDonald family clan, Kirk attended Dunsmore Elementary, Clark Junior High and Crescenta Valley High School, where he swam and played tennis.

In 1970, Kirk graduated from the University of Southern California with his Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering and embarked on his first career as an engineer, working at Pacific Clay Products and the National Clay Pipe Institute. Then, as if one challenging profession wasn’t enough, Kirk decided to enroll in Western State College of Law, graduating in 1982 with his JD. Kirk spent his legal career in the field of construction law where he was able to combine his expertise in civil engineering with his sharp legal acumen, first at Gill and Baldwin, where he became a partner in 1986 and president in 2006, and then at Abdulaziz, Grossbart and Rudman beginning in 2017. Kirk loved his work and took great pride in putting his best effort into representing each and every one of his clients.

Despite a demanding career, Kirk made time for many hobbies and interests. He loved sports and was a lifelong Dodger fan and avid USC Trojan supporter. Kirk also enjoyed classical music, building things in his workshop, and restoring his Model A. He was also deeply, quietly philanthropic, donating regularly to numerous causes that were close to his heart.

But more than anything, Kirk loved his family and friends. He was quick with a smile and a laugh. He was never the loudest voice in the room but his presence brought light and warmth to every room he entered. A conversation with Kirk was like a warm, friendly hug. Being in his presence just made you feel happier – understood, cared about, accepted, loved. Those bright blue eyes could convey earnest concern and support, or twinkle with just the right amount of humor, depending on what you needed.

Kirk especially treasured time spent with his chosen family – Matt, Jackie, Sorsha and Soren. He took so much joy in watching Matt grow into the man and father he has become and relished his time with Sorsha and Soren, making it to as many plays, musicals, choir and dance performances, and sporting events, as he could. No father or grandfather could have been prouder than Kirk was of Matt, Sorsha and Soren.

Kirk is predeceased by his parents Phyllis and Bruce. He is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Gary and Wendy; nephew Ian; wife Lori; and their children: Connor and Brent; niece Brianna and her son Michael; and niece Megan and her husband Alfredo; as well as many cousins throughout the MacDonald and Popelka lines. He is also survived by his beloved chosen family – Matt, Jackie, Sorsha and Soren. 

Kirk was one of the best men any of us has ever had the honor of knowing. He will be loved and missed by all who knew him, now and forever.

No formal service is planned. A private gathering for family and close friends will be held in October. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a cause close to your own heart – Kirk would love that.