Kelly E. MacDonald
Obituary's Biography:
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.
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My dear, dear Kelly❤️. Our many years in eduction together as well as our hours and hours of gab about family, travel, “solving” ha! educational situations, and just being available for one another.. these will never be forgotten, true friend! Love you much❤️❤️. Mary kremkau
We are so very sorry to hear of Kelly’s passing. As former Prairie Run neighbors we were able to get to know your wonderful family and have followed along on Facebook over the years. Kelly knew how to squeeze the most out of every moment and left you all with many wonderful memories. Know that she loved you all with all her heart – it showed in all of the photos and memories she shared.
I met Kelly just once when she came to Arizona to visit her sister Susan. In just the small amount of time we spent together she left a big impression. I liked her immediately. Everything about her radiated a love of life and it was infectious. I will always remember her and smile. My heart goes out to her family and everyone whose lives were touched and improved for knowing her.
I’ve never met a more devoted educator, and she made a lasting impact on the students and parents she supported. Kelly was a great partner as we transitioned kids to high school. She will be missed!
Kelly. You are a bright light in a world. I will always think of you and your beautiful laugh.
AmyGarcia
✝️I’m heartbroken with the passing of Kelly. We taught together at Woodland. She was a wonderful friend and teacher. We really had some good times together. My prayers are with her precious family and friends. 🙏
You were my maid of honor…we were pregnant together and raised our kids at the same time. So many fun times and memories that won’t be forgotten. We spent so many family Get- A -Ways together and so many New Years Eves together which will never be forgotten. I met Kelly 46 years ago and she has been my best friend ever since. George and I want to give our deepest sympathies to Jeff, Katie, Erin and the entire Stemlar family. This world we live in was a much brighter and happier place with Kelly in it. She is and will be greatly missed by all who know her. All of our collective pain will fade a little bit over time, but she will always live on in our hearts and minds. We love and miss you Kelly! Rest now my friend. You are in a better place… Until we meet again. All Our Love, Kris & George
Kelly was so welcoming to me my first year at Woodland Middle School as a special education teacher. She was hilarious and fun to be around. I’m so sorry to hear that her laugh is no longer ringing through a school.