Dec. 22, 1966 – Oct. 26, 2025
It is with profound sadness that we announce that former Etna and Weed resident, Robert Burns MacDonald has peacefully passed away on October 26, 2025 in Roseville, CA, after a lengthy, courageous, hard-fought health battle. Robert was born in Hudson, Wisconsin on December 22, 1966 and lived in Minnesota before moving with his family to California in 1970.
Robert was known by family and friends as “Rob”, “Big Mac” and “Fajita”. A devoted family man to his sons and stepdaughters, Rob was often described as a gentle giant by those who knew him best. He was lovedby all and known for his kindness, intelligence, and witty sense of humor. Rob lived most of his life in Placer County and grew up on the family ranch in Sheridan, where he honed his skills as a rancher, cowboy, and adventurer. He was active in 4-H and FFA throughout his youth. At age 16, he got his start inProfessional Rodeo. Rob’s skills as a steer wrestler led him around the country competing in National Rodeos. In 1993 he won the Steer Wrestling Competition at the Denver Nationals placing him #2 in the world..
Rob graduated from Lincoln High School in 1985. He attended West Hills College and Cal Poly San LuisObispo. In 2014 he earned a BA in History from CSU Sacramento. His career was diverse, encompassing roles as a heavy equipment operator at Gladding McBean, as an ironworker on many large building projects in Northern California, and as a beloved substitute teacher. Rob was planning on teaching highschool history before becoming too ill to continue his career path in education.
Robert’s family and close friends were central to his life. His best moments were with his children,supporting them on their academics, sports, careers, and personal milestones. He is survived by his sons, Cecil MacDonald (Savannah) and Mark MacDonald; his mother, Carol Silicz; sister, Katie MacDonald Aunan (Steve); stepdaughters, Jamie St. Pierre (Cory) and Julia Roesser (Eric); stepbrothers, William and Dan Sandy; and his extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Colin D. MacDonald; stepfather, Douglas Silicz; and stepmother, Nancy E. MacDonald.
“Rob’s Final Rodeo”- A Celebration of Life, will be held on December 6, 2025, at 2 pm at the home of his dear friend, Carol Amoruso, located at 3460 Amoruso Way, Roseville, CA. RSVP to Carol [email protected].
