Mike McDonald

Michael James McDonald, Sr., son of James Patrick and Ruth Mary (McDonald) McDonald, was born on March 22, 1956, in Omaha, Nebraska. Mike passed away on Monday, May 12, 2008, in rural Adams County, Iowa from injuries sustained in an automobile accident on Highway 34 at the age of 52. His early life was spent growing up on the family farm outside of Emerson, Iowa. Mike attended the Nishna Valley Community Schools, graduating from Nishna Valley High School in 1975. On November 27, 1981, Mike was united in marriage to Mary Suzanne McCoppin at St. Patrick's Catholic Church. Following their marriage they made their home in rural Emerson. Mike farmed most all his life and had a great passion for agriculture. He especially loved raising cattle and enjoyed his dogs and horses. He was active in 4-H throughout the years. Some of the things that helped define Mike were his little brother, love of chocolate and motorcycles. He will be remembered for his big heart, his love of life and his comedic side. The epitome of a good person, Mike never knew a stranger and loved visiting with his friends and neighbors. He reveled in his role of Santa Claus at Christmas for the neighborhood kids and f...[more]

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ly. Mike was a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. Preceding Mike in death was his infant daughter, Mary Grace McDonald. Survivors include his wife, Suzanne McDonald of Emerson, IA; their three children, Megan Kendrick and her husband Josh of Hurricane, WV, Michael McDonald, Jr., of Emerson, IA, and Katie McDonald of the home; his parents, Jim and Ruth McDonald of rural Emerson, IA; brother, Tom McDonald and his wife Susie of rural Emerson; nephew, Levi McDonald; numerous cousins; his dog Sammy Boy; extended family and many friends. Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, May 17, 2008, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Imogene. Celebrant was Father Donald Bruck. Altar servers were Devin and Joanie Laughlin. Lector was Julie Babbitt. Vocalists were Anne Smith and Sheri Bowen. Organist was Ardis Dusenberry. Attending the memory register were Kathy Grindle, Dawn Hillyer and Linda Stouder. Ushers were Steve Grindle and Larry Stouder. Honorary casket bearers were John McDonald, Bud Laughlin and Marty Laughlin. Casket bearers were Dave Bowen, Scott Hillyer, Jim Laughlin, Rick Mabary, Kevin Maher and Dick Paul. Burial was in the Mount Calvary Cemetery in Imogene. Memorials in Mike's name are being directed to the family. The Hackett-Livingston Funeral Home in Shenandoah was in charge of the arrangements.