Obituary of Carolyn Ann MacDonald

MacDonald, Carolyn Ann, 93, died peacefully in her home on June 12, 2017, while surrounded by her children. Born on July 26, 1923 in Detroit, Michigan to Eugene and Jessie (Duer) Webb, she was one of five sisters who grew up in the heyday of Detroit. She spent her summers on Hickory Island at the family cottage. Ann received her formal education at LaSalle Junior College, Boston. In 1944, Ann met the love of her life, Kenneth Hugh MacDonald, at a chance meeting at the bridge table. After a four month courtship they were married. Ann and her husband raised their seven children in Ann Arbor Michigan until they purchased their flagship radio station WSAM Saginaw, in 1963. Their broadcasting company would expand to include radio stations in Lansing, Cadillac, Traverse City and Petoskey. Ann was instrumental in the success of the radio stations and served as music director for WSAM in the 1960's and 70's. Her passion for the business ranged from captaining the inaugural homemade raft down the Saginaw River in the WSAM Raft Race to serving on the Foundation Board for the Michigan Association of Broadcasters later in her career. Ann's many charitable contributions were particularly focused on special needs individuals in Saginaw County. Ann was a driving force behind "Love Affair", an annual fundraiser benefiting the mentally and physically challenged. In addition, she was instrumental in the establishment of "The Junction" in Chesaning, a restaurant in which patrons are served by adults with developmental disabilities and cognitive impairment. For the past thirty-five years, Ann spent her summers at Walloon Lake and her winters in both Tarpon Springs and Naples, Florida. She was involved in tennis, golf, bridge and numerous social activities at the Saginaw Country Club, the Saginaw Club, and Walloon Lake Country Club. In addition to being a great bridge player, Ann was a voracious reader, and loved music and live theater. Beyond her broadcasting career, children, and philanthropy, Ann will be remembered for her love for socializing with dear friends, her quick-wit, and generous spirit. Ann was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Hugh MacDonald; four sisters; one brother; and her son-in-law, John Wilson. She leaves behind seven children: Carolyn Ann "DeeDee" (John) Wilson, Kathy (Terry) Kasiborski, Kenneth Hugh "Mac" Jr (Deirdre) MacDonald, Josie (Bill) Doherty, Trish (Jack) Garber, Andrew MacDonald, Mary Elizabeth MacDonald; fifteen grandchildren: Kevin (Kate) Kasiborski, Brian (Natalie) Kasiborski, Michael (Kat) Kasiborski, Devin MacDonald, Mairin (Jack) Watson, Mackenzie MacDonald, Maeve MacDonald, Becca (Bill) Flack, Bill Doherty, Andrew Doherty, Tim Doherty, Tad Garber, Peter (Sarah) Garber, Joey Garber, and Mason MacDonald; 12 great grandchildren: Matthew and Lauren Kasiborski, Connor, Blake and Quinn Kasiborski, Kylee, Brennan, Evan and Austin Flack, John Watson, Rowan Doherty and Bianca Kasiborski. She also leaves her beloved dog, Emmet. The family wishes to also thank loving caregivers: Meaghan Richter (Primrose), Jessica VanGuilder, Bethany Wright, and Renae Elwood. FUNERAL: Ann's Funeral Liturgy will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 20, 2017, at St. Dominic Parish - St. Stephen Catholic Church, 1310 Malzahn. Rev. Fr. Steve Gavit will officiate. Rite of Committal will follow at St. Andrew Mausoleum. VISITATION: Friends are welcome to visit with the family at the Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off State) on Monday from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Ann will lie in state at the church on Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass. MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the Saginaw Community Foundation / KH MacDonald Scholarship Fund, the Petoskey Harbor Springs Area Community Foundation / Young Americans Fund or a charity of the donor's choice. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home, church or through www.deislerfuneralhome.com.