Where Caring Is A Family Tradition
Where Caring Is A Family Tradition
With heavy hearts, we announce the sudden passing of Lieutenant Jeffrey M. MacDonald, 44, on October 6, 2014, here in his hometown Winneconne, WI.
Jeffrey is survived by the mother of their children, Jennifer Johnson-MacDonald; and two beautiful children, Jennalyn 6, and Jacob 14, of Omro. He is also survived by his loving best-friend Jessica Michalski; his mother, Beverly Doucette; sister, Chris (Tom) Lang and children; brother Jason (Kim) Doucette and children; and brother, Keith Doucette; his loving God Parents, Bonnie Klemmer-Manske and Henry Klemmer. Also left to cherish his memories are numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, close friends and co-workers.
Jeffrey was born and originally raised in Oshkosh, WI. Later he and his family moved up to Marinette, WI, where he graduated from Marinette High School in 1989. This was when he
pursued his life long career in Emergency Medical Services. Jeffrey has been a proud Paramedic for 27 years, serving the city of Marinette, Oshkosh, and Berlin WI. Every emergency personnel had a second job. His first calling led him to his second calling of pursuing an additional passion on saving lives in the line of fire. Jeffrey extended his education and career as a Firefighter I, Firefighter II, Firefighter III, Fire Inspector, Dive Rescue Specialist, Arson Investigator, Hazmat Emergency Officer. His courage and passion led him to being promoted as a Lieutenant on the City of Oshkosh Fire Department where he proudly served 21 years, and recently retired in September 2013. Jeffrey was also, a deeply respected Volunteer Captain at the Winneconne/Poygan Fire Department, his hometown, for the past 15 years.
Lieutenant Jeffrey MacDonald was loved and respected by so many people for his dedication in helping and saving others, his courage, his determination, and the love and respect he gave to others.
Jeffrey was preceded in death by his father, Bill MacDonald; his stepfather, Bernie Doucette, maternal grandparents, Evelyn and Henry Klemmer; paternal grandparents Billy and Josephine MacDonald.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2014, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Mueller Funeral Home, 904 E. Main St. Winneconne. Following the visitation there will be a service provided by family and friends. An Honorable Fire Service will also take place by Winneconne/Poygan and Greenville Fire Departments, and surrounding departments. Inurnment will be in the Calvary Cemetery, Oshkosh.
In lieu of flowers, donations will be accepted and made out to "The Dewey Center, Aurora Medical Center." Donations will be used to build a memorial bench and also plant a tree in remembrance of these spiritual grounds that gave him so much hope his last few months.
If you wish please submit online condolences to muellerfuneralhomeinc.com.
Jennifer MacDonald wrote on October 17, 2014
Jeff, you were the most amazing man when I met you 24 years ago. I was in awe of your intelligence, your compassion for others, your hard working ethics and that sense of humor was like no other I had every met even tho I was only 17. We had many happy years together growing and changing from me finishing school, 2 children, building our dream farm. You had struggles over the past 7 years I could not help you with. I struggled with that everyday as all I wanted was you to be healthy and not suffer your battles everyday. I would have done anything to take that pain away for you. You Jeff no longer have to struggle, you are in God's arms now and he has made you strong and healthy. Please remember my promise to you in regards to the kids. I won't let you down. Please watch over us and be an angel to your children. I'm sure you will be with them at every event in their life in spirit. You left us way to soon, but you Jeff are now free. Until we meet again. As I told you many times I will always love and care for you. Jennifer
Mike Johnson, Milwaukee wrote on October 12, 2014
Jeff's Farewell Service this Saturday past was the most telling testimony to the full size, scope,and merit of his dearest friends, colleagues, and family. I was astounded at the breadth of this young man's life. What I saw there could have filled three human lives and then some! Jeffrey lived and gave and gave and gave ever more of himself, both from his learned disciplines and his oceanic charity of heart. Someone like this is irreplaceable. I offer a simple thought, therefore. Were Jeff able to voice his present desires and hopes to any of us, is it possible he would remind us that his earthly work is still not finished? I trust he would. So let us be his arms, his hands, his voice, and his heart in the ongoing mission to help everyone we can. Jeff believed that "strong people stand up for themselves; while stronger people stand up for others." I, for one, vow to do just that. In ways most mysterious and wonderful, our friend is changed, but not truly gone. May those who hurt the most from his physical absence now feel our embrace and strength beyond question. For those of us who long for a sign, God permitting, that he lives whole, well, and closely by......let our eyes be sharper and our ears more attentive to the "want and need" in the world right in front of us, which hungrily searches for "stronger people." People just like our beloved Jeff.
Michelle Gauthier wrote on October 11, 2014
I met Jeff about 20 yrs ago while working at Orange Julius with Jenny, the mother of his beautiful children. I became friends with them. He was so fun to be around and though I haven't seen him in many years, I never forgotten him. I send my deepest condolences to his entire family and all those who know him well. I can still hear his laughter and see his smile. May the dear Lord keep him safe now.
Kristin Kasuboski wrote on October 11, 2014
My deepest and sincere prayers go out to your family. I truly enjoyed being able to work with you all when Jacob was in preschool. May the love of family and friends comfort you during these difficult days.
Kate Ewing wrote on October 11, 2014
My heartfelt condolences go out to Jacob and his family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Kerry Ahrens wrote on October 10, 2014
I had recently met Jeff who always talked of his love of his family and close friends. Though his passing is sudden and sad, I hope his family is reassured that he has at last found peace. To his family, my blessings and condolences.
Terri Walton wrote on October 9, 2014
What a sad day when I heard of Jeff's passing. He was loving, caring, funny, and I will miss you. I know you are at peace. Say hi to your dad and other past relatives. I will see you when the Lord decides to take me. Love you.
Jerry Miller wrote on October 8, 2014
To all those left behind. I am so saddened by Jeff's passing. As a brother in EMS and Recovery I got to know Jeff over the past year and I am the better for that. I can tell you that he loved his children very much and talked about them every time we were in the same place. I also know that he struggled with some things and that he loved God and professed his faith. I wish that I could be there for the services Saturday but just cannot. Please know that I am praying for all of you who knew him that God gives you peace in knowing that Jeff no longer suffers and I believe he is with God. Goodbye my friend. Christ's Blessings, Jerry
Mary Bigalk wrote on October 8, 2014
Jeff will be greatly missed even though he is in a better place. Love to Jen and the family in this time of sorrow.
Naomi and Ernie Pulvermacher wrote on October 8, 2014
Our prayers are with you and your wonderful family.
Uncle Tom & Aunt Kay wrote on October 7, 2014
Rest in peace our dear Jeff. Although we will miss you so much we will never forget your smiling face and the many happy memories that we have!!! You were one in a million kid. Now walk with our Lord and watch over all of us. Love you forever!!!!!
Peggy and Jack O'Brien wrote on October 7, 2014
I will miss you so much Jeff. You have always been a funny and adoring nephew. Your in Gods hands and we will meet again.I love you honey, RIP. Give Gramma Klemmer a big hug and kiss for us.
bonnie klemmer manske wrote on October 7, 2014
My sweet sweet jeffery I love you so much. You always made me smile sometimes you would make me laugh so hard I could not breathe. What a handsome young man you turned out to be.I will always remember the good times we had at family events in Marinette. I loved listening to you play the organ you were so good at it.I am proud to say you are my God Son and mom asked me to be your God mother. Rest in peace till we meet again make sure you come meet me when it's my turn. All my love forever Aunt Bonnie
Ginger Goebel wrote on October 7, 2014
Jen, Jenna & Jacob-
It is my prayer you find peace in knowing he is set free from his pain and struggles. Sorry for your loss, may the Lord wrap his loving arms around you today and always. You are loved my friends!