Dr. Bill McDonald, 47, Rego, died early today at a Louisville hospital as a result of severe burns he received when an outdoor furnace exploded Friday night.
McDonald operated McDonald Veterinary Clinic in Hardinsburg.
Emergency responders were dispatched to McDonald’s property in Rego at 4:30 p.m. Friday, after a report that McDonald was injured when an outdoor furnace exploded.
He was airlifted to a Louisville hospital for treatment.
Susan Umpleby, Dr. McDonald’s sister posted on Facebook, he passed away shortly after midnight this morning surrounded by his family and friends who were praying and singing hymns and sharing stories.
“We had a few laughs, as my brothers and I shared some childhood antics (and even some from our adult lives) with Bill’s children.
“We cannot begin to understand how or why something like this could happen. Only God knows how all the pieces are supposed to fit together. He puts those pieces together and reveals the final picture to us in His time. We just have to pray for peace and accept God’s perfect will. Bill was a Christian and we take great comfort in knowing he walked with God in life, and has now joined Jesus.
“We are excited for Bill to run through those pearly gates with a brand new body, free of any injury. We can picture him running into the arms of our mother, Lois, who departed this life 40 years ago. We are all going to miss him terribly, but the separation is only temporary. We are thankful that he is now with our mother there, and we still have our mother, Barbara, here on earth with us.
“Bill was so full of life, so quick to laugh, always made everything fun, and one of the most generous people you will ever meet. He was loved as a veterinarian, as he was so good with the animals but even more so with their owners. He has touched so many lives in such a positive way. He responded to every request for assistance, whether it be an animal emergency or a friend or family member needing help. His children are kind, loving, generous, amazing kids. I don’t think there’s any question about the legacy Bill leaves behind.
“Bob, David and myself are proud to call him our brother. My parents are so proud to have had him as a son. We are thankful that the Rutherford/Becht/Lashbrook families are part of our extended family. All of the friends that chose to devote their weekend to supporting Bill and us at the hospital is a testament to Bill.
“My prayer is that we all take some inspiration from his example. He truly was one of a kind.
“Please pray for his wife Lindsay, and their three children, Jacob, Madelyn and Joseph. They have shown remarkable strength through this. The coming days, weeks, months and even years will be hard, but we will navigate this together with the guidance of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
