Margaret M. "Marie" McDonald

Margaret M. "Marie" McDonald Battle Creek Margaret M. "Marie" McDonald, 78, passed away peacefully on Tuesday evening, September 21, 2010 at the Lifespan Good Samaritan Hospice Residence. She was born in Honor, Michigan on July 7, 1932 the daughter of John and Hilda (Maki) Wildie. Marie had a wonderful and giving heart. A 41 year Breast Cancer survivor, Marie was extremely active in the Reach to Recovery Program that helps recent Breast Cancer patients and their families. She also advocated and collected money for the American Cancer Society and March of Dimes and made and donated scarves to children and the needy. Marie married Oliver L. "Lowell" McDonald at the First Congregational Church in Battle Creek on June 7, 1953; he survives. She is also survived by her children, Linda (Mike) Jones of Washington and formerly of Battle Creek, Brenda (Bob) Soeters of Holland, Steve McDonald of Washington, Connie (Todd) Benjamin of Hastings and Cindy Evans of Battle Creek; her grandchildren, Heather (Rich) Dubay, Holli (Stephen) Linton, Kristopher (Jessica) Jones; Miranda Jones, Brandon (Kristina) Benjamin, Tyler Benjamin, Kristen Soeters, Jessica Soeters and Austin Soeters; 5 great-grandchildren; 2 step great-grandchildren; a brother, Everett (Theda) Wildie and a sister, Lucille (Mike) Blodgett. Marie was preceded in death by her parents and 2 brothers, John Wildie and Ed Wildie. Marie was a proud member of the Republican Party and enjoyed researching politics. She also enjoyed baking, cooking, knitting, crocheting, roller skating, crossword puzzles, shopping, playing the piano and her flower garden. Marie was a great hostess and loved to spend time with her family, but especially with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. At the request of the family, they will receive friends 2:00 to 6:00 p.m., Sunday, September 26, 2010 at the Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home. Funeral services to celebrate Marie's life will be held 10:30 a.m., Monday, September 27, 2010 at the funeral home with Rev. Brad Smith of Grace Community Church, officiating. Interment will follow at Fort Custer National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider making memorial contributions in Marie's memory to the Lifespan Good Samaritan Hospice Residence or the American Cancer Society. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.