John J. McDonald Jr.
Obituary's Biography:
After a lengthy journey with leukemia, John passed peacefully on Monday August 31, 2020. He will be deeply missed by his wife Therese, daughters Maggie (Kelly) Heden and Emily (Anthony) Canelakes, granddaughter Nora Heden, mother Lavena (the late John) McDonald, siblings Mary Beth (Vito) Van Ornum, Tom (Tricia) McDonald, Kathleen (John) Serkowski, and David (Jennet Shepherd) McDonald, and many nieces and nephews.
An avid outdoorsman, John loved fishing, tending to his gardens, and reveling in the scenery from the seat of his Harley. His razor-sharp wit and sense of humor could light the room, even in the darkest hours. Despite his gruff exterior, John will be remembered by those who knew him best as loving and kind-hearted. Often a man of few words, his quiet encouragement resonated loudly with those who chose to hear it.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. All arrangements were entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium, 410 East Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030. For more information please contact (847)223-8122 or log onto www.strangfuneral.org
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The Turtle Flambeau Flowage will never be the same now that John is gone. With tears, I will raise an iced glass of Jameson and chase it with a Leinenkugel, while remember the better times. My deepest sympathy to you Terrie, and the entire family.
Aunt Terri,
You and the girls are in our prayers. Uncle John was a kind, funny and all around great guy! He is remembered fondly.
With love,
Jeremy
R.I.P. John. To many of my high school classmates are leaving us too soon.
Aunt Terri,
I’m so sorry to hear the news about Uncle John! Although we’ve been far apart all these years, please know that you and your beautiful family have always held a special place in my heart! We will keep you and your family lifted in prayer! I love you and please know that if you need anything I’m just a phone call away! 262-598-6829
Terrie Ruth:
Bob and I are both shocked and saddened to hear of John’s passing.
Time and distance have separated us, but good memories remain.
With love and prayers for you and your family.
Donnalee and Bob McDonnell.
Terrie and family I am very sad to hear this news. So many great times we all had together with the kids going boating and cooking out and of course lots and lots of laughing, these are wonderful memories I will never forget. We keep those times close to our hearts. I am praying for all of you and can feel your sadness.
Tami Dube
Sending sincere sympathy to the family, from the Marks side.
Dianne Marks Rench, Cousin
(Daughter of Richard)
I remember John so well, from Wheeling High School and UTI Wisconsin. John had the greatest laugh, and I can still remember and hear it. He helped me get a badly needed and good paying job with UTI after school. I know they only gave me that job because of Johns recommendation. Thank you, John. RIP
We are so saddened by the loss of John. We shared such fond memories. Remembering Florida, the manatee that came to visit, and our own “glass bottomed boat” John made. He will live on in our hearts.