Nathanael Joel McDonald

“You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered!” — Psalm 139:16-17

Nathanael “Nate” McDonald, 30, went home to be with the Lord on Aug. 22, 2025. Born June 30, 1995, to Joseph and Denise (Hartman) McDonald, Jr., his life was a beautiful reflection of God’s joy, love and grace.

With a heart full of laughter and a spirit of adventure, Nathanael was an avid skateboarder and an amazing athlete. He enjoyed modifying electric bikes, jewelry making and video editing.

Nathanael was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ. His faith was not just a part of his life — it was the foundation of who he was. His life bore witness to the truth that even in our imperfections, God’s love is perfect.

He had a special way of connecting with people — reminding them that they were seen, valued and loved by God. His playful spirit, kind heart and unwavering faith left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Though our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in the promise of eternal life. We believe with confidence that Nathanael is now in the arms of his Savior, free and whole, where there is no more pain, sorrow or tears — only perfect peace.

Nathanael is survived by his parents; his brothers, Mark, Jesse and Philip; his sisters, Abigail and Hannah; his nieces and nephews, Blake, Isaac, Jacob, Chael, Emberlin, Oliver, Calvin, Audrey and Andrez; and his maternal grandmother, Emily Hartman.

Nathanael was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Charles Hartman; and his paternal grandparents, Joseph and Phyllis McDonald.

A Celebration of Nathanael’s Life will be held on Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025, at 11:30 a.m., in the Gedon Funeral Home & Cremation Services, LLC, 121 W. Main St., Lock Haven, Pa.

Family and friends will be received in the funeral home one hour prior to the services. All who knew and loved him are welcome to attend and rejoice in the hope we have in Christ.

Floral pieces will be accepted, livestreaming of the services will start promptly at 11:30 a.m., on our Facebook page. Interment will be in the Hayes-Fearon-Bossert Cemetery, Beech Creek.

Online thoughts and memories can be made at Gedon Funeral Homes Facebook page or www.GedonFuneralHomes.com