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BORN
1934
DIED
2024
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James McDonald Obituary
April 24, 1934 - April 30, 2024
Maumee, Ohio - TOLEDO, OH James Joseph McDonald was born in Elmhurst, New York on April 24, 1934. He was the only child of Helen (Hornik) and James Martin Mc Donald. After meeting his goal to reach 90 years of age, he died on April 30, 2024.
Jim's parents and his wife Nancy Anne preceded him in death. He is survived by his six daughters, Kim (Larry) Cryan, Catherine, Mary Helen (Tom) Turner, Carol, Jill (Charlie) Sternburgh, Elizabeth (John) Bozich; his grandchildren, Jimmy, Rachel, Robert, Sara, Joey, Matt, Tanna, Tommy, Nancy, Jennifer, Meagan, Evan, Emily, Madison, Conner, and Ava; and his great-grandchildren, Amon, Robel, Caleb, Ella, Cade, Everly and Wren. Dad loved living in Sun City and as his health declined, he talked of his house fondly.
A Funeral Mass was held on May 10, 2024, in Toledo, Ohio. An Interment service will take place in South Carolina later. Those wishing to express condolences may consider a contribution to Hospice of Northwest Ohio, Kent State Men's Basketball, University of Toledo Athletics or Bowling Green State University Athletics. Please view and sign our online "guest registry" at CoyleFuneralHome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James McDonald
Jim Klein
December 25, 2024
Shortly after 1960 Christmas Day my junior year at Ottawa Hills, Coach had a couple of practices that week. The first day he turned the heat up in the gym and I remember staggering over to the drinking fountain during a water break gasping for air and standing in line behind Senior Jim Medill. I asked him if football practice was ever like this and he replied "not even close." Playing for Coach McDonald was one of the most memorable and special experiences of my youth. We all knew we were very fortunate to have the opportunity to play for and learn so lucky to have this opportunity as kids.
Doug Smith
December 24, 2024
About 6-7 years ago my wife and I were spending some time at my sister and brother in law´s condo at Litchfield by the Sea (Pawleys Island). Picked up Jimmy Klein in Hilton Head and headed down to Hilton Head to see our dear friend and mentor Jim McDonald. Coach thought we were coming the next day so he was in his pajamas. I told him practice was in an hour so he better get ready and quick. We had a great 3 hour plus lunch telling stories. He remembered details of all the games and people. It was a memorable time with a fine human being. I miss him but cherish the memories of times we shared! Best, Doug Smith.
Cathy O'Donnell
July 17, 2024
Coach McDonald was a wonderful and supportive friend to Rod and me. We enjoyed our visits with him in SC. He ran a tight ship at Kent State, and his teams were well coached and disciplined, and he left a legacy that the Kent community respected.
Doug Smith
May 8, 2024
Coach MAC was my coach at OHHS in 1960 and 1961 his first job coaching. He helped me become a better player and taught me important life lessons. He was one of the three to four more influential people in my life particularly in my formative years. It was incredibly powerful for me to reconnect with him in our twilight years. I will miss him!
Doug Smith
Jim Klein
May 5, 2024
Coach will be sorely missed and never forgotten. At Ottawa Hills High School, Jim was my drivers' education instructor and basketball coach. Thereafter he was my mentor and friend. I was fortunate to visit with him only three weeks ago. Bless Jim McDonald.
Joe
May 4, 2024
Thanks Coach "Mac" for turning around the Kent State basketball, you where the best to work with and a true gentlemen
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Memorial Events
for James McDonald
May
9
Visitation
3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Coyle Funeral and Cremation Services - Toledo1770 S Reynolds Road, Toledo, OH 43614
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Coyle Funeral and Cremation Services - Toledo1770 S Reynolds Road, Toledo, OH 43614
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