Daniel Macdonald

1946 - 2026

The loved ones of Daniel Macdonald are sad to announce his recent passing. He died of natural causes in his home.

Daniel was born to Jane Copthorne Macdonald and Donald Macdonald in Bay Shore, NY on November 28, 1946. He spent much of his childhood in the northern suburbs of Chicago, graduating from Lake Forest High School in 1964. He served in the United States Army, then graduated from Lake Forest College with a degree in education. After meeting and marrying his beloved wife, Mimi, they left Chicago and moved to Idaho, where he obtained a Master's Degree from ISU. Idaho would become their permanent home, where they raised their two daughters and many golden retrievers.

Mr. Macdonald, (or "Mr. Mac" as most students knew him), taught social studies and history for School District #25 for over 40 years, both at Alameda Junior High School and Century High School. He was known for his creative lessons, his raps on current events and historical topics, and his classroom jeopardy games.

He was a deeply involved member of his church and spent much of his free time in ministry efforts with at-risk and incarcerated people, especially adolescents. Dan was a dedicated philatelist and an avid reader.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Mimi, and his older brothers, Copthorne and David. Daniel is survived by his two daughters, Alice and Emily, his sons-in-law, Steve and Raj, and his four grandchildren, Donovan, Lily, Colin, and Betty.

A memorial service for Mr. Macdonald will be held on Saturday, February 14, 2026 at Christ Church, 1245 N. Arthur, at 11:00 am. An open reception for friends, family, and the community will be held following the service at the Purpose Center, 224 North Main Street, Pocatello.