Blizzard Claims Life of Mr. Mac's Owner

Raymond F. McPadden Jr., the 49-year-old Shelton man who died plowing his driveway during the blizzard, was a businessman who believed in giving back to the community.

McPadden was co-owner of Mr. Mac's Canteen, which has two locations — one in Monroe and another in Milford.

In Monroe, McPadden was known for his generosity. When A.J. Rogers, a 19-year-old town firefighter was diagnosed with leukemia, McPadden made a donation, and when police officers held a Cop-On-Top fundraiser for the Special Olympics athletes, Mr. Mac's Canteen grilled free hot dogs and hamburgers for people who came by.

"Ray was one of a kind," said Monroe Police Lt. Brian McCauley, whose sons hosted the fundraiser for the firefighter. "He always had a good word for everybody. I will miss him. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family."

Preliminary Investigation

Shelton police said a preliminary investigation revealed McPadden was plowing his private driveway on Darrin Drive when his vehicle became stuck. It appears he suffered a medical event, according to a press release.

Earlier reports said McPadden was shoveling, but Patch was later informed that McPadden was found beside his truck and was possibly trying to get help.

A neighbor saw McPadden after his wife became alarmed that he had not returned to their home, the release said. Police, Fire and EMS crews responded to a 4 a.m. medical emergency call on Saturday, Feb. 9.

Roadways were nearly impassable at that time. "Getting him to an ambulance was very difficult and EMS had to use a snow mobile and I'm told possibly a sled," Shelton Police Chief Joel Hurliman said.

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