Obituary of Mary Elizabeth MacDonald

Mary Elizabeth MacDonald was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan on October 1, 1962; she passed on April 2, 2019 in New Lothrup Michigan. She was 56 years old. Mary was born with Down syndrome and was only expected to live until 25 years of age. At the time of her birth our father, Ken MacDonald told us that an angel was born to our family, and she truly was an angel her entire life. Despite her disability, she lived life to the fullest and was dearly loved by friends and family. The MacDonald family would like to thank the O'Neill family from Hillsdale County, Linda and Norman Diem from Chesaning, and Valerie and Bob Griffin from New Lothrup, all whom took wonderful care of Mary while she resided in their homes. For almost two years, with the assistance of attentive caregivers, Mary lived in an apartment with her friend Lisa Bila. Special thanks to the Bila family who played a key role in Mary living semi independently during this time. Throughout Mary's life our mother, Ann MacDonald continually advocated for Mary's education, health, and well-being. Our family holds cherished memories of Mary being home for the holidays in Saginaw and Walloon Lake and her famous toasts that she would proudly proclaim from the dinner table. Mary had a friendly, engaging, and personable personality. She also had a backbone and was not shy about stating her opinion, which she did often. Mary was an avid Michigan sports fan, GO BLUE! Mary was employed and retired from the Junction Restaurant where she diligently cleaned bathrooms and folded laundry. She was so proud to have a job and receive a paycheck. A special thanks goes to Mary's most recent caregivers Jane, Bethany, Judy, Courtney, Laurie, Maggie, Meghan, & Jessica. Mary was preceded in death by her mother and father and brother-in-law, John Wilson. Survivors include six siblings: Carolyn Ann "DeeDee" Wilson, Kathy (Terry) Kasiborski, Kenneth Hugh "Mac" (Deirdre) MacDonald Jr., Josie (Bill) Doherty, Trish (Jack) Garber and Andrew MacDonald. She is also survived by fifteen nieces and nephews: Kevin (Kate) Kasiborski, Brian (Natalie) Kasiborski, Michael (Kat) Kasiborski, Devin MacDonald and fiancé Lauren Koch, Mairin (Jack) Watson, MacKenzie MacDonald, Maeve (Andrew) Baculy, Becca (Bill) Flack, Bill (Amber) Doherty, Andrew (Anna) Doherty, Tim Doherty, Tad Garber, Peter (Sarah) Garber, Joey Garber and Mason MacDonald. Mary was also blessed with thirteen great nieces and nephews. Mary also leaves behind her cherished and best friend, Shirley LePeak. Mary's final years were spent at the home of Valerie and Bob Griffin. The MacDonald family is eternally grateful to Valerie for the loving wonderful care she provided to Mary during her most vulnerable time. SERVICE: Mary's celebration of life will take place at St Dominic's Catholic Church, 1310 Malzahn St., Saginaw on Tuesday, April 9th at 11:00 a.m. Rev. Fr. Steven M. Gavit will officiate. Burial will follow at St. Andrew Cemetery. Those wishing to meet with the family may gather at 10:00 a.m. at the church on Tuesday. MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to the KH MacDonald Scholarship Fund or the Junction of Hope Restaurant in Chesaning. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the church or through www.DeislerFuneralHome.com