Albert McDonald, a beloved member of the Wildwood family for over four decades, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 13, 2025, while receiving Hospice care at his home on McLean St in Ballston Spa. Albert was 78 years old.

Albert had many challenges in his early life, and spent most of his life in State Developmental Centers before Wildwood.

Albert first joined the Wildwood family in 1979, finding his first true home at the Waverly Place residence where he lived until 2014. He then moved to the McLean St residence, where he found another loving family that cared for him greatly until his final days.

The teamwork, caring and love that these two teams showed Albert over his lifetime with us, and most especially over the last several months, has been incredibly beautiful to be part of. - truly exemplifying our Wildwood Values in Action .

Albert was a true lover of music. He was a big fan of many music genres (country, gospel, Motown and "oldies"), spending countless hours listening, singing to and recording cassette tapes of his favorite tunes. Sing-alongs with Albert became a tradition for many of us (even those of us who do not sing!) , and his birthday parties were legendary, often featuring celebrity "guests" like Elvis and Dolly Parton. One of his favorite possessions was always one of his “boom boxes” - we estimate he probably had well over a hundred in the last 46 years!

He made annual trips to the Elvis Festival in Lake George , something he looked forward to and saved for all year long. Albert also thoroughly enjoyed his many trips to New York City, visiting the Bronx Zoo, the Radio City Rockettes, and enjoying the subway rides.

Locally, Albert was a familiar and welcome presence at musical events - whether it was a show at Proctors or other theaters , or a concert in a park - Albert was always ready for a night out ! Albert also cherished his simple, social routines, particularly enjoying a cup of coffee and friendly conversation with friends and wait staff at local institutions like the since closed Olympic Diner in Schenectady and the Redwood Diner in Rotterdam, his PT “workouts” in Saratoga and going shopping - an all time favorite past time. The casino and the harness track were also favored activities - probably because he usually won !

Most of these activities he did with specific staff members over the years - forming rich traditions and special memories for him, and everyone who had the opportunity to spend time with him.

This loss of our friend Albert Charles McDonald (as he often liked to be called) has broken many hearts , and we will forever remember and miss him. Rest in peace , Albert .