John MacDonald, a widely known and highly respected custom integration industry executive, suffered a sudden heart attack in his home office and passed away on Tuesday, February 10, 2026. News of his sudden passing raced throughout the industry, launching a torrent of heartfelt tributes across all major social media sites.
Read more on the passing of John McDonald…
Technology is often thought of as a cutthroat industry, with competitors clawing away at the edges of your business and everyone scratching and fighting for survival. Then there is John MacDonald, a singularly unique, thoroughly positive human being who brought warmth and meaning to every interaction, whether casual conversation or business discussion.
John D. MacDonald Jr. (June 1, 1962 – February 10, 2026) was President of the storied Morris Tait Associates manufacturers representative agency and Custom Integrators Supply distributor based in Mission Viejo, CA – a company he’s been with since 2011. One of the largest rep firms in Southern California, MTA was partnered with some of the most prestigious custom integration brands, and John’s influence as the leader of such a consequential organization spread far and wide within the industry.
A Devoted Family Man
Perhaps more importantly, as the announcement from Morris Tait noted, John was a devoted husband to Dot MacDonald, a valued father to son Cain (Tammy), and a treasured grandfather.
The mark of a man is not what he says about himself; it’s how others who know him characterize him. One look at the many tributes swirling around the internet and a picture begins to emerge of a consummate professional who freely and thoughtfully shares his expertise, feedback and creative ideas for the benefit of those he is associated with. These tributes are heartfelt and are equally balanced between manufacturers, dealers, and his sales representative colleagues around the country.
A Few of the Tributes to John MacDonald
- Kathleen Thomas (Sony): I am crushed at the news of John MacDonald passing. Not only was he a long time Sony rep, and multi-year winner of rep of the year, he was one of the loveliest people I have ever been privileged to work with. He was always that first call when I needed insight… Rest in Peace sweet man…
- Todd Towey (Ring): I’m deeply saddened to hear this news. John was always so kind to me in all of our interactions. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who knew him. We lost a great one.
- Peter Dyroff (Strateres rep firm): A kind and gentle soul who was always a consummate professional. My prayers go out to his family. R.I.P. John…we will miss you…
- Jeff Goldstein (Sony, retired): So incredibly sad to hear this news today. John was such an incredible partner to his vendors and customers alike. He personified integrity and work ethic. He will be sorely missed. My deepest condolences to his family and the Morris Tait team…
- Chris Barlo (Blustream): I learned so much from John. Truly a legend and just an unbelievably nice and constructive human being. I can’t believe he’s gone…
- G Paul Hess (D-Tools): So sad to read this. I spent a lot of “windshield” time with John and learned a lot from him, and I am so thankful we were able to reconnect last year at one of the shows. My heart goes out to his family and all those close to him.
- Chris Smith (TheCo Team): Our entire team had the pleasure of knowing John. Like so many others, we experienced firsthand the professionalism, kindness, and integrity that defined him. Everything you’ll read about John is true. He was that genuine. That steady. That good.
- Jason Sloan (Sonance): Words cannot express the friendship, partnership, mentorship and leadership John provided not only our company but the industry. He was routinely the best of us. I will miss his kindness and his one-of-a-kind laugh. Godspeed John.
And these go on and on…
A Personal Note
On a personal note, although I can’t say that I knew John well, I did know him. John was a long-time subscriber to Strata-gee and would comment (or even correct) a story from time to time. He was very supportive of Strata-gee and gave me a lot of encouragement as he recognized and expressed appreciation for the different approach I took versus other available media outlets. I didn’t have to ask for his thoughtfulness; he freely shared it.
A Tribute From Morris Tait
In an email to its partners, Morris Tait honored its fallen friend. Here is an excerpt…
The team at Morris Tait will miss John more than words can express. To us, John was more than a leader, he was a cherished friend. With over four decades of experience in the custom-integrated audio and video systems industry, John’s expertise was a cornerstone sought by our customers and manufacturers alike. John’s infectious enthusiasm for innovation inspired everyone he met, and his generosity and spirit extended far beyond the workplace—he was always ready with a kind word or thoughtful advice.
Morris Tait Associates Email, February 11, 2026 – In Loving Memory of John MacDonald
Information on Arrangements
Information on funeral arrangements or a memorial will be announced later. However, in lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Food Share Ventura County, in memory of John.
I wish to offer my sincerest condolences to his family and friends. May your many fond memories of John live on in your heart eternally…
Rest in peace, John.
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