"My sweetheart Judy is now in heaven. I visit her everyday and miss her more each time. But she says be strong because your family & friends need you & will provide comfort during this difficult time. Judy created wonderful picture binders. I plan to look at each and tell the story of our life together. "
In loving memory of
Judy McDonald
October 20, 1944 - February 17, 2021
Sign Judy's Guest Book: Registry for Judy McDonald
Judy Eileen McDonald, 76, of Ames was born October 20, 1944 in Kimberley, British Columbia, Canada and passed away February 17, 2021 in Ames, Iowa at Mary Greeley Medical Center. She was the second of two children born to Garnet Coulter of Kimberley, British Columbia, Canada; and Ida (Beureguard) Coulter of Valcourt, Quebec, Canada. She met the love of her life Clifford James McDonald (born in Sintaluta, Saskatchewan, Canada) in Fernie, British Columbia, Canada. They were married June 30, 1971 and together raised two boys, Kelly (Nicole) McDonald born in London, Ontario, Canada now residing in Bettendorf, Iowa and Bradley (Holly) McDonald born in Goderich, Ontario, Canada now residing in Ames, Iowa. She was proud of her children and her grandchildren Devin, Faith, Brendan, Noelle, William, Ruby and her great-granddaughter Scarlett. She enjoyed traveling with family and friends, live music and writing notes to all.
Judy loved her family, conversation, making all feel welcome and an ice cold Stella. Her witty character is often and fondly remembered by those who knew her. Judy was known for working hard raising two boys, running the family businesses and being a devoted wife.
She was proceeded in death by her parents, her mother-in-law Rose (Zaba) Zimmer and her sister Jeannie (Coulter) Gibson. The family requests memorials be directed to the American Lung Association.
Join the family in honoring Judy on Saturday, February 20, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care, 414 Lincoln Way, Ames, Iowa; with Pastor Bryan Simmons officiating. A graveside service will follow at the Ames Municipal Cemetery. Masks are required.
Online condolences may be directed to www.grandonfuneralandcremationcare.com
Tributes
"It's been nearly 25 years since I last saw Judy. As a young child many years ago, Brad was one of my closest childhood friends. I still remember the day you all left Goderich. I was disappointed and sad to see you and your family go. It was tough as a kid to be ok with that. Judy was always kind and very nice to me when I would come over. The nicest mom of al my friends. LoL To Cliff, Brad, Kelly and family, my heartfelt condolences and deepest love to you all. Love Judy forever. Warm thoughts and prayers from 'back home'. Scott McIver"
"Dearest Uncle Cliff, Brad and Kelly, So sorry to hear the news. What great memories we have of Aunt Judy and everyone, when we moved to Goderich. We were so lucky to have met you and how welcome you made us feel. Mum and dad were grateful for your warmth and kindness and the many laughs we all had. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Mike Collins Norfolk, England "
"Cliff and family, I only just got to know Judy by being her nurse. She was such a lovely, kind, and funny lady. She touched my heart and I will never forget her. My prayers to you. Angie"
"Dear Cliff, Kelly, Brad and family - With sympathy - We are sad to know of your sadness - Judy was beautiful ! As a friend - We treasure our wonderful memories of her. She has always been and always will be - special in our hearts. We are sad that we lost contact - We missed her - since your move from Goderich - it was always good to know - that Julie and Kelly kept their friendship. I just finished watching your beautiful tribute and memorial celebration - She loved each of so very much ! A beautiful family- she knew she was loved ! That love will always be in your hearts and be your strength. Caring thoughts to each of you - Sincerely - Cecelia and Don Denomme "
"Dear Cliff, Kelly, Nicole, Bradley, Holly and Families Judy was a vibrant woman filled with so much laughter love and downright craziness and will be missed by everyone she touched. Her exuberance of life was contagious. I remember meeting Judy for the first time and felt she was the perfect match for my cousin Cliff! We are so sorry that she suffered for so many years with her health but we also thank God every day for keeping her with you for those many years. Dale, myself and our family send you much love , strength and prayers at this so sad time. May all the treasured memories over the years give you comfort as they will remain in your hearts forever. Love Linda and Dale Mom (Aunty Zee) sends her love and condolences Cliff to you and your Family. She will always remember Judy with a smile on her face. Sending Cliff lots of love and hugs as she knew how important Judy was in his life . Take care Cliff! Love Aunty Zee"
"So sorry for the loss of your wonderful wife, Cliff and your mom Brad and Kelly. She loved and was loved! Wayne and Kim Anderson, Davisburg, Alberta"
"Judy will forever be missed. I work with Cliff at Barten Law and one day I remember Judy coming into my office. She noticed the screen on my window wouldn?t stay shut and it was letting flies in. We got a big laugh out of it because it was a new window. A few days later I had a note on my desk that included some sticky putty to close my window. The note was from Judy. This simple act made me me smile, laugh and made my day. It was the little things with Judy. She always made thoughtful gestures and always thought about others. That simple act of kindness let me know she was thinking about me and it made my day. -Megan Lantz"
"Cliff , Kelly, Bradley & family, I am so sorry for your immense loss. Judy was simply the BEST in every way! My thoughts & prayers are with all of you "
"Dear Clifford and families. We were saddened to learn of the passing of Judy. We were privileged to have met her and your family at the Zaba reunion. She was a lovely friendly lady. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Hold dear to all your memories. Your cousin Rosemarie & Adelard Douan"