Patrick Joseph “PJ” “Kai” Donaldson, born May 31, 1995, in Poway, California, passed away on September 1, 2026, at the age of 31 due to complications from Type 1 diabetes. Patrick faced the daily challenges of Type 1 diabetes from the age of 9 with quiet strength and determination.
Patrick grew up in Ramona, CA and attended Ramona Elementary, Olive Pierce Middle School, and Ramona High School before completing his education at Poway High School. He later pursued vocational training through the San Diego Job Corps and continued his studies in San Jose, California. His curiosity, hands‑on skill, and drive to learn shaped both his personal and professional path. Shortly before his passing, Patrick relocated from San Marcos, California, to Knoxville, Tennessee, where he worked in the entertainment industry as a Games Technician — a role that suited his technical mind and playful spirit.
Patrick was an individual of many passions. He loved video games and anime, found joy in participating in Nerf club events, and embraced the creativity of 3D printing. These interests reflected his imagination, and his love of building and exploring new worlds — both real and digital. Patrick previously devoted time to the Type 1 diabetes community by participating in fundraising efforts for JDRF, and teams founded in his honor have raised more than $15,000 to advance research for those living with the condition he bravely faced.
He is survived by his mother, Jennifer Cosgrove of Escondido; his step‑father, Edward Cosgrove of Escondido; his father, Carey Donaldson of Las Vegas, Nevada; his sister, Carly Rivera of Carlsbad; his brother, Tanner Warren of Ramona; and his bonus siblings, Hannah Cosgrove of Fallbrook, Michael Cosgrove of Vista, and Seth Wuersch of Vancouver, Washington. He is also survived by grandparents Tim and Judy Henry of Ramona, and Katie McNorton of Minden, Nevada, as well as his uncle, Joseph Henry of Corona.
Patrick was engaged to be married to Alexis Bushman of Long Island, New York, with whom he shared love, partnership, and plans for a future filled with hope and devotion.
Known affectionately as PJ and Kai, Patrick carried many identities with grace — son, brother, grandson, fiancé, friend. His humor, creativity, and kindness will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to share in his life. Though his time was far too short, the impact he made endures in the hearts of those who loved him.
A memorial service honoring Patrick’s life will be held at Nuevo Memory Gardens, 532 Ash St., Ramona, CA, on September 25th at 10:45 a.m. All who knew him are welcome to attend and celebrate his memory.
In honor of Patrick’s life, donations may be made to Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF) at www.BreakthroughT1D.org to support research and advocacy for those living with Type 1 diabetes.