Obituary for Margaret McDonald

Margaret McDonald

September 20, 1944 – October 1, 2024

Margaret (Marge) McDonald, age 80, passed away on Tuesday, October 1, 2024.

A Catholic Funeral Service will be held on Monday, October 7, 2024, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Brooklyn Park, MN, at 10:30 AM. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service. Immediately following the service; a luncheon will be held at the church, followed by a burial at St. Edward’s Cemetery in Faribault, MN.

Margaret was born on September 20, 1944, in Peoria, IL to Tom and Effie (Joseph) Williams as the youngest of 8 children. As a child and young adult, she cherished her summers spent on Lake Minnetonka with her Aunt Mary and family. A graduate of the Academy of Our Lady High School, class of 1963, she married William (Terry) McDonald of Mound, MN on August 19, 1967, at St. Patrick Church in Peoria, IL. The couple settled in Osseo, MN and later moved to Big Lake, MN in 1998.

Margaret enjoyed a rewarding career that began at Bob Evans Gift Shop in Osseo, MN. She went on to work at the Star Tribune for over 25 years; beginning as a carrier, then District Manager and eventually rising to Regional Manager. Deeply committed to St. Vincent’s Church, she worked in the Rectory as the Office Administrator and played a key role in organizing the annual Harvest Festival for many years. A devoted mother, Margaret was always there to support those in need, and her warm, radiant smile could light up any room.

Margaret was an enthusiastic gardener and an exceptional cook, known for her delicious Lebanese dishes and stunning wedding cakes. She treasured her trips to Northern Minnesota with dear friends, and her deep love for family shone through in the numerous gatherings she hosted, creating cherished memories for all.

Following Terry's passing on May 16, 2016, Margaret moved to Hanover, MN in 2017. She is survived by her five children: Bill of Iowa City, IA, Colleen (Jayson Nelson) of Rogers, MN, John (Tammy) of Zimmerman, MN, Brian (Karin) of Rogers, MN, and Sarah (Joe Clark) of Columbia Heights, MN. She is also survived by two brothers: Carl Williams, and Tom Williams; two sisters, Kitty (Williams) Lewis and Pat (Williams) Schelp; and 16 grandchildren, along with countless beloved nieces and nephews.

Margaret is preceded in death by her parents, her brother Bill Williams, and twin sisters Maureen Couri and Marlene Miller.

Margaret will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her legacy of kindness, love, and joy will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.