Obituaries

 

Robert L. McDonnell

PORTAGE  --  Robert L. McDonnell, age 87, went home to be with the Lord on December 23, 2015.

Bob grew up in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Leo and Victoria McDonnell.  He admired his brother, Michael “Paul” his whole life and cared deeply for his sister Marjorie’s children, Vicki Thorson and Michael Iskow.  He met his wife, Louise Mihelich, while attending, then graduating Cooley High School. Starting out in the Navy Reserves, he served his country on active duty in the Philippine Islands during the Korean War.  As a Navy AEM3 (Aviation Electrician’s Mate Petty Officer 3rd Class) he worked on Navy PBM-5 planes.  Many heard the exciting stories of his time spent in the military.  When honorably discharged, he pursued his electrician profession with the IBEW Local 58.  This allowed him to work on the Alaskan Pipeline which was most memorable for him.  He was a member of American Legion Post 216, Milford, Michigan.

His gorgeous head of hair was often found underneath the hood of a car.  He coached his sons’ Hi-White baseball teams, lent a helping hand to family and friends, enjoyed feeding the birds, working in the yard and fixing anything that may have need.  An avid golfer, he was always sharing a tip or two.  He loved having his family around him.

Married 58 years to Louise, they had four children.  He is survived by:  Jeanne (John) Caswell, Portage, WI, Robert (Colleen) McDonnell, Milford, MI, and Patrick (Lori) McDonnell, Highland, MI;  eight beloved grandchildren, Holli (Brian) Berner, Jennifer (Clay) Hendrixson, Heather Wiederhold, Robert S. McDonnell, Jessica (Patrick) Sanders, Julie McDonnell, Thomas (Buffy) McDonnell, Stacey McDonnell and seventeen treasured great grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Louise McDonnell, first born son, Robert Patrick McDonnell, grandson Christopher Caswell and great grandson, Tyler Sweeney.

Isaiah 60:19 “The sun will no more be your light by day, nor will the brightness of the moon shine on you, for the LORD will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory.”  Always in our hearts, we look forward to seeing you again…. 

The Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage is assisting the family.

 

Obituaries
For information please call 608 742-2126 (Portage, WI) or 608 635-2763 (Poynette, WI)