Jack L. McDonald of Washington entered into his eternal glory on February 22, 2022, following a brief illness. Born on May 25, 1935, in Washington, IN., Jack was the second son of the late James Edward (1914-2006) and Juanita (nee’ Mary Oneida Carrico, 1915-1989) McDonald of Washington.
He is survived by his wife of over 66 years, Clara Ann “Pat” McDonald (nee’ Alexander), and five children: Stuart McDonald of Washington, IN; James E. McDonald, II of Jacksonville, FL; Dr. Cheryl McDonald of Germantown, MD; Julie Hopf (Stephen) of Jasper, IN; and Christina Ison (Jerry) of Bloomington, IN. He is also survived by his brother, Jerry McDonald, of Washington, IN.
Additionally, he is survived by eleven grandchildren: James E. McDonald, III (Solange) and Ashley Hashman (Brian) of Jacksonville, FL; Isaiah, Christian, Alan, Eli, Stephen, Jr., and Thomas Hopf of Jasper, IN; Jedidiah Lee, Josiah Jackie, and Zuzu (Susannah) Eliza Ison of Bloomington, IN. His three great grandchildren are Liam and Owen McDonald and Ivy Hashman of Jacksonville, FL.
He graduated from Rose Polytechnic Institute in Terre Haute, IN in 1957 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. While in college he was a member of the Army ROTC, and upon graduation was commissioned into the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers serving as a First Lieutenant. He also served in the U.S. Army Reserves for several years.
During his career, Jack worked as a mechanical engineer for the Ohio Oil Company, Shell Oil Company, and the Celanese Corporation before returning to his hometown and working with his father and brother for a number of years at McDonald Chevrolet. He subsequently worked for the U.S. Navy at Crane, IN. before retiring in 2000.
Jack was a member of Christ United Methodist Church in Washington. Proud of his military service and a strong patriot, he was a member of the local American Legion. During the early 1970’s he served as President of the School Board for the Washington Community Schools.
He was a lifelong avid reader, with western authors such as Louis L’Amour among his favorites. He imparted his love of reading to his children, and always encouraged them to further their education.
He enjoyed watching sports, particularly IU Basketball and the NFL, and for several years joined his father in the sport of harness horse racing as an owner and enthusiast.
Above all, He was a family man with his wife and children foremost in his mind and actions. His enthusiasm, humor, generosity, love of life and country, and care for his loved ones will be his legacy and cherished memory by those closest to him.
Visitation for Mr. McDonald will be held on Saturday, February 26, 2022, at Goodwin-Sievers Funeral Home at 2020 State Street, Washington, IN from 2:00-6:00pm. A funeral service will be conducted on Sunday, February 27, 2022, at 1:00pm by Rev. Jerry Turner at Goodwin-Sievers Funeral Home.
Online condolences may be shared with the family at goodwinsievers.com. Goodwin-Sievers Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the care of Mr. McDonald and his family.
