Charles Ross MacDonald

Charles Ross MacDonald, known affectionately as Ross, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2026, after a courageous five-year battle with dementia. He was born on July 18, 1942, and lived a life rich with accomplishments, joy, and beloved memories. 

Ross is survived by his loving wife of 60 years Peggy, daughters Cindy (Peter) Pickering, Lori (Steve) Guolla, son Scott (Pam Brown) MacDonald, grandchildren Andrew, Emma, Tyler, Katelyn, Brady and Austin, brother-in-law James Reed, nieces Tracey MacDonald (Greg) Wolf, Kristin MacDonald, Elizabeth MacDonald, Jill Reed (Mark) Pihl, Jane Reed, Karin Reed and numerous extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Elizabeth MacDonald, his brother Ronald Gordon MacDonald, and sister-in-law Jeanne Reed. 

His early life was marked by his passion for sports, as he excelled in football, baseball and track and field at Detroit Cooley High School. He also played hockey in the Detroit Rec League. In 1960, Ross attended Northeastern Junior College in Sterling, Colorado and played football and ran track. From 1961-64 he attended Michigan State University earning his bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and he also played freshman football and hockey. In 1967, he earned his master’s degree from Wayne State University, arming him with the knowledge and skills that would shape the lives of many young student athletes. 

Ross dedicated over three decades to education and coaching. He began his career teaching Physical Education at Detroit Hillger Elementary School and Warren Fitzgerald Schofield Elementary School from 1965 to 1967, during this time he was also Assistant Football Coach for Detroit Denby High School and Warren Fitzgerald High School. He settled in at Fraser High School, where he taught Physical Education from 1968 until 2000. He made an indelible mark as Head Hockey Coach and Assistant Varsity Football Coach from 1968-1974 and Head Football Coach from 1975-1988, guiding teams to remarkable successes. He also served as the Head Football Coach at Warren DeLaSalle from 1989-1999. Ross's overall record as Head Football Coach was 131-99-1 with multiple league titles and his overall record as Head Hockey Coach was 52-93-5. The highlight of his career was coaching the Fraser Ramblers in the 1981 MHSAA State Championship football game vs. Escanaba at the Silver Dome. Ross was passionate about his work earning him recognition throughout his entire career starting with the Eddie Jeremiah Hockey Award in 1973, was Regional Coach of the Year in 1981 and 1983, Macomb County Coach of the Year in 1981, Catholic League Coach of the Year in 1994, Metro East Football Coach of the Year three times, and was the Head Coach of the MHFCA East All-Star Team in 1995. He was inducted to the Michigan High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 1995, Macomb County Coaches Hall of Fame in 2001, Michigan High School Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2013 and an inductee to the Fraser Athletic Hall of Fame in 2026. 

Beyond his impressive career, Ross's most cherished role was that of a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He treasured weekends spent on the family boat, shared moments at their farm in Manton, and unforgettable vacations, including a memorable trip to the LA Olympics in 1984. His wife, children and grandchildren fondly remember his unwavering support for their endeavors, whether it be in figure skating or their school and athletic events. 

Ross's passion for life also included a love for golf. He hosted the annual CR Mac's Golf and Hunt Club event at the family farm for over 25 years, took trips to St. Andrews, and Pebble Beach further showcasing his commitment to bringing family and friends together. Recognized for his warm demeanor, sense of humor, and heart of gold, Ross endeared himself to everyone he met—leaving an everlasting impact on countless lives, 

Following Ross's wishes, a Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday May 31st, from 1-4 PM at Andiamo's located at 7096 East 14 Mile Rd, Warren, MI 48092. 

Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a memorial contribution in his name to a Fraser High School Student Athlete Scholarship. Checks payable to Fraser High School and mailed to Fraser High School. attn. Kathy Loush, 34270 Garfield Rd., Fraser, MI 48026 or to the Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org.

Please share a memory of your own of Ross with his family here on his online guestbook.