Kenneth G. McDonald, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on Friday, March 7, 2025.  Born on April 4, 1938, in LaCrosse County, WI, Ken “Kenny” was one of ten children born to Gordon and Verona McDonald.  He was an honest man who conveyed his message well, always speaking with clarity and purpose.  If he said it, he meant it.  His wisdom, empathy, and tongue-in-cheek humor left a lasting impact on those who knew him.

Ken honorably served in the United States Air Force as an Aircraft Mechanic from July 1955 through June 1959, achieving the rank of Airman 2^nd Class.  He was awarded the Good Conduct Medal and was honorably discharged after four years of dedicated service to his country.

Ken was a proud Millwright and a dedicated member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Carpenters Local #161, where he earned his 50-year pin.  He took great pride in his trade, often sharing stories of the skilled tradesmen he worked with and the apprentices he mentored.  He kept track of them through the years, always eager to see them grow and succeed.

A God-fearing Christian, Ken was a devoted member of his church and served as a church elder, always leading with faith and a heart for others.  He believed actions spoke louder than words and found joy in serving his community through various organizations, giving back whenever he could.

Ken was the foundation of our family-a man of unwavering principles who valued hard work, honest, and standing by his word.  He showed us that kindness is more than just being nice, that real strength is found in empathy, and that love is proven through actions rather than words.  Above all, his deepest devotion was his wife, “Maggie Annie”, his lifelong partner and the center of his world.

He found his greatest joy in his family-his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and siblings-who all knew the warmth of his presence and the strength of his love.  Whether through a knowing glance, a well-placed joke, or the practical advice he gave without hesitation, Ken left an impact that will never fade.

Ken is survived by his wife, Margaret Ann (Adams) McDonald; his children, Chris McDonald, Lori McDonald, Kevin (Laurie) McDonald and Joel (Karen) McDonald; siblings, Alice (Dale) Long, Clifford McDonald, Allen McDonald and Helen (Mike) Cooley; grandchildren, Chris (Kelly), Erin, Nate (Jenn), Max, Josh (Megan), Katey (Jayme), DJ, Katie and Annie; and his great-grandchildren, Adelaine, Jazmin, Nathaniel, Michael, Matthew, Luke, Austin, Gage, Annelyse, Michael and Kingston.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gordon and Verona McDonald and five brothers, Charles (Arlene) McDonald, Norman (Kiyo) McDonald, Chet (Carol) McDonald, Ed (Janet and Phyllis) McDonald and Richard McDonald.

Though he is no longer with us, his foundation remains, providing strength and stability for generations to come.

Service Date March 15, 2025

SERVICE LOCATION Immanuel Baptist Church

A service to honor and celebrate Ken’s life will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 1:00 p.m. at Immanuel Baptist Church, 1400 Warwick Way, Mt. Pleasant, WI, 53406.

Friends and family are invited to gather, share memories, and pay tribute to a man who meant so much to so many.

Flowers or donations are welcome. Donations will help fund the Annual Immanuel Baptist Church Easter Breakfast…