Frances M. (O'Donnell) Macdonald, 89, passed away peacefully on April 4, 2025.  Formerly of Appleton, Fran was the beloved wife of the late Andrew H. Macdonald for 63 years.  Frances was a devoted mother to her daughter, Joan Macdonald (Chip Hodge); her son, James Macdonald; her son, Steven Macdonald; her daughter, Maureen Macdonald; her daughter, Janet Macdonald; and her son, Thomas Macdonald (Kristin).  She leaves behind her brother, Thomas (Ruth) O'Donnell.  Fran was "Grandma" to her dear grandchildren, Jessica (Brian) Fernandez, Shane Macdonald, Sam Edmondson, Joseph Edmondson, Declan Macdonald and Eamonn Macdonald and 6 great-grandchildren.  She leaves behind many dear nieces, nephews and cousins, Godchildren and many close friendships with loved neighbors and friends.  She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Frances O'Donnell; sisters, Mary DeFilippo, Letitia Kelley, Lillian Lopes; and brother, James "Gerry" O'Donnell.

Fran was raised in Brookline, Massachusetts, where she met and married Andy.  Shortly after their wedding, they moved to Mt. Clemens, Michigan, where Fran began her career as homemaker.  After 9 years, their busy household moved to Greenfield, Wisconsin for 10 years and then to Appleton, Wisconsin.  A long-time parishioner of St. Bernard Catholic Church, she actively volunteered in many capacities, including the Executive Committee of the Ladies of St. Bernard.  She greatly enjoyed the camaraderie of fellow volunteers who worked together diligently in the parish office, participated in the "Crafty Ladies" fund-raising activities and cared for the bereaved as part of the funeral luncheon ministry.  Additionally, Fran volunteered with the St. Elizabeth's Hospital Auxiliary for many years.

Today, the term "domestic artist" would be used to describe Fran.  She was a great cook, and many friends and family were the grateful recipients of her culinary skills, even if their waistlines were not!  Harvest time could find Fran in the kitchen canning, freezing, baking and creating another batch of her famous salsa.  She loved to crochet, and Fran created many lovely afghan quilts, among other items.  However, Christmas was when Fran's creative side ran strong to produce every kind of baked goods and many, many angels and snowmen, of every size, shape and construction material.  Her legacy will continue with the culinary and decorative gifts she taught family and friends.

For the past 7 years, Fran lived at St. Paul Elder Care (SPEC) Villa in Kaukauna where she was a beloved resident.  This last chapter in her life challenged Fran in new ways with the passing of Andy in 2020 and her continued health decline over time.  There are so many wonderful people at SPEC and Compassus Hospice who supported Fran during this time and her family is grateful for those individuals (and you know who you are!) who cared for Fran, supporting her physical, emotional and spiritual needs.  Many folks stopped by, before/after work, during their break or their day off, to visit with Fran and always commented on her smile.  The Ascension Medical Group PCP worked tirelessly to care for Fran and was always willing to go the extra mile, despite the time of day, day of the week and even when on vacation.  Words cannot adequately express our gratitude for all of these "angels on earth!"

A funeral service will not be held at this time; however, a memorial service is planned for June 13, 2025.  If desired, memorial endowment donations may be made, with "Frances Macdonald Memorial" notation, to St. Bernard Catholic Parish, 1617 W. Pine St., Appleton, WI 54914.