Charles “Chuck” McDonald passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on March 17 after a brief battle with cancer.

Chuck was born on January 2, 1958, to Gary and Dorothy McDonald in Kalkaska, Michigan. He spent his childhood in Kalkaska and Ithaca alongside his parents and beloved brothers, Gary and Rod. Chuck graduated from Ithaca High School in 1976.

In 1977, Chuck married the love of his life, Becky Frisbey, in her parents’ backyard. Together, they built a life rooted in love, hard work, and family. In Ithaca, Chuck built with his own two hands the home where he and Becky raised their three children. That house was always filled with laughter, warmth, family, and friends.

Chuck spent his adult life working at the family pickle company and later as a car hauler, driving across the country to provide for his family. In 2012, Chuck and Becky purchased a cabin on Long Lake in Hillman. The cabin was a great source of pride for Chuck and another way he expressed his love for his family—creating a place where countless cherished memories were made.

Upon retirement, Chuck and Becky moved to Long Lake full time. The last several years were spent on long walks, boating, taking golf cart rides or snowmobiling on county trails, and enjoying countless hours with family—around the campfire or on the pontoon, always with great food, love, and laughter.

Chuck was a man of integrity, defined by his strong work ethic and fierce devotion to his family. You would be hard-pressed to find someone more honest, dependable, and selfless. No job was ever too big or too small—whether shingling a roof, painting a house, or fixing a flat tire, Chuck was always willing to lend a hand.

A quiet and thoughtful man, Chuck loved to read and had a deep passion for music. He enjoyed playing guitar and singing John Denver and Dan Fogleberg to his children. When Chuck did speak up, you knew it would either be something important—or a perfectly timed joke meant to bring laughter.

Chuck is survived by his wife of nearly 49 years, Becky; his children, Dustin (Courtney) McDonald, Jaclyn Feldpausch, and Mitch (Karley) McDonald; and his grandchildren, who were the absolute joy of his life. He delighted in spoiling them with toys and adventures, including snowmobiles, golf carts, water tubes, and jet skis. His grandchildren include Krystin and Casey McDonald, Jude, Gabriel, and Eden Hoerger; Cash and Duke Feldpausch; and Merrek and Max McDonald.

Chuck also cherished his close relationship with his brothers, Gary (Dawn) McDonald and Rod (Linda) McDonald, along with a large and loving extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gary and Dorothy McDonald, and his infant sister, Rosa. We are confident they have been reunited as Chuck was welcomed into the arms of Jesus upon his final breath.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, May 16, from 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. at the Alma Elks Lodge. Family and friends are welcome to join in honoring and remembering Chuck’s life. Memorial contributions may be made in Chuck’s memory to the Pardee Cancer Treatment Fund. Arrangements were entrusted to Green Funeral Homes. Condolence messages may be sent via our website at www.greenfuneralhomes.com.