Donald J. McDonough

Obituary of Donald J. McDonough
Donald John McDonough, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on November 8, 2025, at the age of 82.
Born on December 8, 1942, in Summit, New Jersey, to the late Donald McDonough and Mildred (Collver) Mooney, Don was raised in Chatham, where he graduated from Chatham High School. His life was marked by hard work, deep devotion to family, and a steadfast love of the outdoors.
It was at Bond's Ice Cream Shop in Short Hills that Don met the love of his life, Mary McDonough (nee Liddy). The two shared an enduring love story and were married on February 15, 1963. Together, they built a beautiful life and home in Madison, New Jersey, where they raised their family and created countless cherished memories.
Don dedicated his career to New Jersey Bell for over 40 years, where he worked as an installer, repairman and splicer. He proudly served as a delegate and general delegate for IBEW Local 827. He was deeply respected by his colleagues for his loyalty, reliability, and sense of camaraderie. Over the years, Don and his co-workers formed lifelong friendships, often gathering for picnics, raft races, fishing and hunting trips.
Don was happiest with a cigarette and Budweiser in one hand and a fishing rod in the other. He meticulously planned his annual trips to New York State, Jersey Shore and Cape Cod. He took great pride in sharing his hobbies with his children and his grandchildren.
Don was a devoted husband and father, a man whose fierce loyalty, quiet strength and unique humor will always be remembered. His legacy will live on in the family and friendships he so deeply cherished.
Don was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 45 years, Mary McDonough, his sister and brother-in-law Kathy and Bob Osterholz, brother-in-law Maurice "Buddy" Liddy, sister-in-law Noreen Liddy, and his son-in-law Joseph Gisoldi.
He is survived by his loving children, son Darren McDonough and his wife Susan, daughter Beth Foley and her husband Ki, and daughters Megan Gisoldi and Suzanne Stansbury; his cherished grandchildren Kyle, Hailey, Erin, Evan, Ben, Sam, Grace, and JoJo; and his treasured great-grandchildren Vince, Roman, and Rowen, brother-in-law and sister -in-law Jimmy and Janet Liddy. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will fondly remember his kindness, humor, and genuine heart.
Services are being held privately for the family under the care of Madison Memorial Home, A celebration of life is being planned at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, charitable contributions may be made in Don's memory to The Kaleidoscope of Hope Foundation, PO Box 1124, Madison, NJ 07940 or online at