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Joseph McDonald Obituary
Joseph Patrick McDonald
May 20, 1972 - August 18, 2024
NORMAL - Joseph Patrick McDonald, 52, of Normal, passed away on August 18, 2024, in Normal.
His funeral will be held at 10:00 AM Saturday, August 24, 2024, at Carmody-Flynn Funeral Home, Bloomington, following a visitation from 4:00 - 7:00 PM on Friday. Interment will be at Evergreen Cemetery immediately following services. To express condolences on line, please visit www.carmodyflynn.com.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Community Players Theatre or Illinois State University Foundation. Please note "In Memory of Joe McDonald" in the memo line. Mailing details and online donation information can be found at www.carmodyflynn.com.
Joe was born May 20, 1972, in Chicago, son of Jack and Judith (Mezydlo) McDonald. He was proceeded in death by his parents. He married Dena Freidinger on March 21, 1998 in Normal.
Surviving are his wife Dena, Normal; his brother, Jack, Chicago; mother and father-in-law, Duane and Vermeda Freidinger, Goodfield. Also surviving are his sisters-in-law: Zina (Trish Guinee) Young, Peoria, Jodie (Jeff) Sauder, Roanoke, and Tracy (Thad) Heffren, Eureka; brothers-in-law: Troy (Dona) Young, Goodfield, Darren (Jane) Freidinger, Tremont, and Kurt (Kristin) Freidinger, Morton; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and his beloved cat, Cupcake.
Joe was a 1990 graduate of Driscoll Catholic High School, Addison, IL. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Math from Illinois State University in May 1994 and began a 17 year career with State Farm in the Life Actuary Department where he earned the distinction of Fellowship Society of Actuaries and then served in various leadership roles.
Joe's passion for teaching prompted a career change that led to the creation of his own tutoring business. Furthering his love to teach and learn, Joe became an Assistant Professor at ISU in 2016, first in the College of Math and then the College of Business. In December 2023, Joe earned a Master of Science Degree in Applied Statistics from ISU.
Joe enjoyed a variety of passions that included supporting ISU athletics (especially the volleyball team), acting in various roles in Community Players' productions, singing, playing the guitar, fantasy baseball, and cheering on the Chicago Cubs/ Bears/Bulls. However, his passion to truly care about others continues to be a gift to those who received his kindnesses and love. The light and joy he freely shared will be so missed by those who were a part of his special life.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joseph McDonald
Sponsored by Carmody-Flynn Funeral Home.
Leah
September 18, 2024
Every time I try to write something on here it just doesn't seem good enough. But I've never met someone so kind, patient, and easy to talk to. I met Joe when I was struggling in a couple of math classes & if it weren't for him, I don't know if I would have gotten through it. I am most going to miss just talking to him about life & sports, we loved talking about football - I'm really sad I'll never get the chance to know him better & keep working with him, he was really the only comfort I had at school at all. There won't ever be another person like him & he will be greatly missed
Dr. David Landess
September 3, 2024
I was just made aware of Joe´s passing and am so sorry for your loss. I always enjoyed talking with Joe through the years. He will be dearly missed. My condolences to your family.
J. Gordon Bidner
September 1, 2024
Dena, I just learned of the passing of your husband on August 18th today Sept. 1st. Please accept Sandi and my sympathy and our condolences. I only met Joseph one time when I stopped by your home to drop something off and learned that he was experiencing some health issues. I just now read his obituary and he was indeed a talented individual as well as educator and State Farm Life Actuary Dept. member. Again, my apologies for missing his obituary and if there is anything I/we can do to help alleviate your loss please let me know. In Christ's Love, Sandi and Gordon Bidner
R
August 29, 2024
I had Joe my first semester at ISU. He was instantly my favorite teacher. I always liked to chat with him after class. I'm sorry for your loss.
Amelie
August 29, 2024
I had Joe for MQM 100 and he was my private tutor for college math classes. I am devastated to hear about his passing. I am so sorry for your loss.
Dan Kelley
August 29, 2024
I had the pleasure of serving with Joe on the ISU President search committee. I found him to be caring, intelligent and professional in his commitment to the process. His passing is certainly a loss for ISU and the
B-N community. My condolences.
Thomas M
August 28, 2024
I had him for MQM 100 in 2023 and he definitely had a way of brightening up the classroom allowing students to play their favorite songs at the beginning of class. I'm sorry for your loss.
Nancy Wasberg
August 22, 2024
I am so sorry to learn of Joe´s death. Know that Dena and Jack are in my prayers. Joe´s parents were good friends and were my daughter´s God-parents.
Jon Simkins
August 22, 2024
My deepest sympathy Dena. I knew Joe from State Farm. Whenever our paths crossed, he was always smiling. Joe was caring and a genuinely good, kind individual. I will miss Joe and i will keep you in my prayers.
Debbie Zielke
August 22, 2024
I am so sorry Dena. Joe was a very smart, kind, caring person and will be missed by all who knew him. You are in my thoughts, what a loss.
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