Described as a kind, compassionate leader and friend, Mr McDonald was the president of the Southland Chamber of Commerce.
He died on Saturday after an unexpected medical event. His death notice stated he “left this world while riding his bike at Sandy Point”.
The news has shocked and saddened people around the Southland community.
Chamber of Commerce chief executive Sheree Carey said the board and the team knew him as a man who was kind, compassionate and a great supporter of people.
“He volunteered his time to support causes and those who needed it, speaking quiet words of encouragement to individuals, and strongly advocating for business in the South”, Ms Carey said.
“The loss of Reece is being felt by many. He was our leader and our friend.”
Ms Carey said Mr McDonald always had a warmth and cheeky smile when visiting the chamber offices, or with anything he was involved in.
“We are at a loss for words, and appreciate the support we have received from the business community.”
He had been deeply involved with Cycling Southland and led the club as its president for six years. The club issued a statement yesterday, acknowledging Mr McDonald and sent its condolences to his family and friends.
“Reece has been associated with Cycling Southland in a number of ways over the years.
“He first came into our sport through a corporate cycling competition on the velodrome, whilst working for Konica Minolta. Latterly, he had his own Ricoh Riders compete in the event.
“Over the years he has been a competitor, sponsor, and president of Cycling Southland. He has been an advocate for the Westpac Helicopter Appeal, assisting in raising significant funds for this.”
Mr McDonald also supported numerous other charity and community initiatives.
Yesterday, social media was filled with tributes and messages for the businessman who described himself as an advocate for the region.
“Reece was a ray of sunshine and was always genuinely interested in what you were up to, and was always an enthusiastic fan of whatever that was”, a friend said.
Another said: “He will certainly leave a huge gap in everyone’s lives he touched. A great man with so much vigour for life in general.”
