Kelly E. MacDonald

Kelly E. MacDonald, 64, a resident of Grayslake, IL, passed away November 3, 2024 at Northwestern Medical Center in Lake Forest, IL. She was born July 5, 1960 in Cedar Rapids, IA to Thomas and Marlene Stemlar.
Kelly spent her career working as a special education teacher, changing the lives of countless students over the years. Her true passion was working with these children and having a positive impact on their lives. She truly cherished every moment that she taught, even continuing to teach and tutor students for several years after retiring.
A devoted teacher and coach, Kelly approached every lesson with the same enthusiasm she brought to her personal life, teaching the value of teamwork and perseverance. Throughout her own battle with breast cancer, Kelly completed three Susan G. Komen 3-day 60-mile walks in Chicago and Boston, alongside her sisters, daughter, and friends, to raise money toward the fight against breast cancer. We all have admired her strength and will continue the fight in honor of her.
Kelly was a remarkable woman who brought joy, laughter, and love to all who knew her. She was more than just a beloved family member; she was a beacon of fun and friendship. Kelly's love for family was profound. In addition to being a devoted and supportive wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, one of the greatest joys in her life was becoming a grandmother (Kiki) to her beautiful granddaughter, and she loved every moment. Kelly relished the time spent with loved ones, creating unforgettable memories that will be cherished forever.
Her infectious laughter echoing through gatherings, Kelly made every moment special. A master of fun, Kelly had a knack for making friends wherever she found herself. In her own way, Kelly lived life to the fullest, always ready for a new adventure. Although Kelly enjoyed the casino, she understood that life's true treasures are not found in riches, but in the laughter shared with those we love. Kelly would want us to remember the importance of fun, friendship, and family.
Kelly is survived by her husband of 41 years, Jeff MacDonald, her mother Marlene Stemlar, her daughters Katy (Andy) Kirkendall and Erin (Gary Jarvis) MacDonald, her granddaughter Sabrina Jarvis, her siblings John (Camile) Stemlar, Gina (Jake) Sweede, Susan (Robert) Wagemann, and Carolyn (Kevin) Parks, as well as her nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father.
A visitation is scheduled for Friday, November 8, 2024 at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 4:00pm until 8:00pm. The funeral mass is scheduled for Saturday, November 9, 2024 at 10:00am at St. Gilbert Catholic Church 301 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030. Interment will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Susan G. Komen Foundation http://www.info-komen.org/goto/KellyMacDonald. For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.