Language exchange between Donaldson and his Japanese counterparts lasted for three years, and was accompanied by a book detailing the exchange, along with several others, called 'Donaldson's Funnies' published in the 1960s. After Japan's surrender, Donaldson hosted foreign dignitaries including Winston Churchill, the Prince of Wales and the Duke of Gloucester. In 1954 he met his second wife, Gladys May Lankester, by whom he had four daughters. He was also Vice-President of the Inland Waterways Association. He was awarded an MBE in 1954, in recognition of his work with Japanese shipbuilders. Donaldson retired in 1981, with over forty years of service at the company. He died on 6 February 1999 in Alloa, Clackmannanshire. Donaldson also wrote several children's books, including "The adventures of Young Ned, the Dinosaur" (1956), which was based on the adventures of his first grandson, Ned Allan. The book was released after his death. A publisher's dispute about an outline for the next Ned book in 1991 led to the release of "Twelfth Dinosaur, written by Barry Donaldson and illustrated by Tom Giffin". The author was said to be inspired by Alexander Leith, for whom he was a great admirer. The book won the European Book Awards' Historical Picture Book Award in 1991. His autobiography, "A sailor's life" (1967), which includes his wartime exploits, was published posthumously. Two other books are said to have been planned for publication: "The Boring of Olaf I" (a biography of Norwegian king Olaf Tryggvason) and "Travels in Europe with my Brother Arthur" (a biography of his brother Arthur). Donaldson was the subject of "This Is Your Life" on 17 November 1960 when he was surprised by Eamonn Andrews at the London Palladium. He was portrayed by Donald Pleasence in the 2000 film "Chips with Everything". He is the subject of an episode of the BBC Four documentary "Shoegazing", where the musician Glen Matlock paid tribute to his work in the publication "Cool For Cats".