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Virginia B. Macdonald

FUNERAL HOME

Lauterburg - Oehler Funeral Home

2000 East Northwest Highway

Arlington Heights, Illinois

Virginia Macdonald Obituary

Virginia B. Macdonald of Arlington Heights Services for retired State Senator Virginia B. Macdonald (nee Blue), 87, will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 17, at St. Simon's Episcopal Church, 717 W. Kirchoff Road, Arlington Heights. The Rev. Robert Dekker will officiate. Interment will be in Oakridge Cemetery, Hillside. Visitation will be from 2 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, July 16, at Lauterburg & Oehler Funeral Home, 2000 E. Northwest Highway, Arlington Heights. Born Oct. 24, 1920, in El Paso, Texas, she died Saturday, July 12, 2008, at her home surrounded by her family. VIrginia served in the Illinois House from 1973 to 1983, and the Illinois Senate from 1983 to 1994, representing District 27. She was very active in Illinois politics for more than 40 years and served as delegate to the Illinois Constitutional Convention from 1969 to 1970. She was a founding member of St. Simon's Episcopal Church in Arlington Heights. She was the beloved wife of the late Alan H. Macdonald; loving mother of Susan (John) Van Bramer of Palatine and Alan H. Macdonald Jr. of Arlington Heights; cherished grandmother of Rebecca, Diana, Michael and Joseph Van Bramer and Michelle (Christopher) Smudde; and dear sister of the late Richard and Hendrix Blue. For information, 847-253-5423.

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Published by Daily Herald from Jul. 15 to Jul. 16, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Virginia Macdonald

14 Entries

Christopher J. Smudde

July 28, 2008

While I did not know Senator Macdonald personally, I did meet her once through a friend who served as an intern through Elk Grove High School Public Service Practicum. She was every bit the friendly and helpful person my friend told me she was. Please accept my sincere condolences. (the articles caught the eye of a friend of mine because of the name)

Robert L. "Bob" Bergman

July 18, 2008

In an era of political phonies, Ginny was the true essence of public service. She was the real thing and exhibited the qualities that once made the term 'politician' something proud and honorable.

She will be greatly missed by many.

Veva Meyer

July 17, 2008

In memory of Virginia my best friend forever.

Mike McGuire

July 17, 2008

Alan and Susan,

I also was privileged to serve as an intern under Senator MacDonald as a senior at Elk Grove High School in 1987-88 through the Public Service Practicum program. I can honestly say that experience was one of the most influential of my life. Working with someone that dedicated her life to public service and also to the education of "some silly teenager" has stuck with me for the last 20 years. As I approach my reunion, one of the brightest memories of high school was my time interning for the Senator. She treated me as an adult when I probably didn't deserve it, communicated with me as an equal, and passed along her passion for improving the lives of her constituents. The thoughts of my family are with you at this difficult time.

Mike McGuire

James Terrill

July 17, 2008

My sympathies on your loss. Virginia always remebred my name, even though we only made contact at Christmas. She was a thoughtful woman-always finding time for those she knew. Her insight into politics and her advice helped me to achieve something I never thought possible-Trustee of the Town of Porter,OK for five years. Her loss will be felt by many for years to come and she will be remembered even after our passing. Again, my sympathies to all who were priviledged to call her mother, grandmother, etc..

DAVE LEECH

July 16, 2008

AL,
VERY SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. YOU ARE IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS.
SORRY I COULD NOT MAKE THE WAKE. CALL ME WHEN YOU HAVE TIME.
HANG IN THERE , TALK TO YOU SOON

DAVE AND TERESA

Bob and Melinda Kazmer

July 16, 2008

Alan - we were so sorry to learn of the death of your mother. She was quite a woman. Our prayers and sympathy are with you and your family.

Kathleen Harriett

July 16, 2008

Alan and Susan - I was saddened to learn of the passing of your mother. I had the privilege of interning with then State Representative Virginia B. Macdonald back in 1977-78 through the Public Service Practicum program at Elk Grove High School. As her intern, State Rep. Macdonald gave me a first hand glimpse into the workings of our state government and the political process (in the NW suburbs and in Springfield). She served as a mentor and role model for me and I quickly learned that there were no limits to what I could accomplish (even if I chose a career in a typically "male" arena). I have been an attorney licensed in IL for the past 21 years and I believe that my time with Virginia Macdonald certainly influenced my career choice. Please accept my sincere sympathy on the passing of your mother, a great woman.

Kathleen (Casper) Harriett

Pechous Roy

July 15, 2008

What an honor to have served with Virginia during the writing of the Illinois Constitution. Although brilliant and politically savvy, Virginia always exuded a warmth and cheerfulness that I'll never forget.

Roy C. Pechous, Henderson, NV

Terry Gallagher

July 15, 2008

The Gallagher family extends its sincere condolences to the Van Bramer and Macdonald families.

What a Woman...what a legacy.

Christina Pfeifer

July 15, 2008

Alan and Susan, I am so deeply sorry and personally terribly saddened by your mother's passing. Although I know that the time had come, it is so hard to lose the woman that took over after the loss of our own mother. Tim and I extend our deepest affection for you all. I would have flown back, but that upset my father too much so I shall take time to recall my last wonderful visits with her. He will represent us all at her services. You have a legacy of great substance to enjoy for your children. Love, and prayers Tina

Herbert E. Gardner

July 15, 2008

Was truly saddened to learn of Ginny's death. She represented all that is good about politics. She served her constituents well, loved her community-- but especially her family. I thoroughly enjoyed working with her--even before my UA days. My deepest sympathy to all. Sorry I can't be there for the celebration of her life.

Laura Kessler

July 15, 2008

I am so sorry to hear about Ms. Macdonald's passing but I am sure she is with the Lord! I remember her fondly. When my mother worked for her, I had the privilege of being one the "Reagan Girls" (who greeted the then-candidate Ronald Reagan when he visited the Chicago area): this was one of her projects. I will always remember her kindness and deep love for her job and country. God's richest blessings and please know that He is with you. Dr. Laura Barnett-Kessler, Bloomington, IL

Lillian Barnett

July 15, 2008

I was Ms. Macdonald's secretary from 1979-1982. She was a wonderful, dedicated woman and I enjoyed knowing her. Please accept my prayers, thoughts, and deepest sympathy. Lillian Barnett, Bloomington, IL.

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