DONALD COLIN MacNALL

Donald Colin MacNall was born on May 14, 1946, to Eleanor (Neubert) and Donald MacNall Sr. in Alpena. Don’s father passed away when Don was 8 years old. Leo Kaiser became his stepfather in 1946. Don attended St. Bernard’s grade school and graduated from Alpena Catholic Central in 1955. He was in the U.S. Army for three years returning to Alpena in 1958.

On Aug. 13, 1960, he married Blanche Pilarski at St. Casimir Church in Posen. Don earned his Class A Millwright certification at Alpena Community College and worked at Abitibi for 40 years, retiring in 1998. He was an active union member and was president of the Thunder Bay Labor Council, vice president of the State AFL-CIO, and past Co-Chair of the Alpena United Way, Industrial division.

He served as a county commissioner for 10 years and was on all committees at various times. He was vice chairman of the County Board. He was president of the NEMROC Board of Directors and appointed to serve on the CETA program. He was appointed by Gov. Blanchard to serve on Michigan Jobs Training Coordinating Council and member of the Northeast Michigan Consortium. He served on the Stated Advisory Council for Vocational Education, State Board of Education. He was president of the Alpena Lion’s Speed Skating Club. He was a Eucharistic Minister, church usher at both St. Bernard’s and St. Mary’s. He was a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus and served as Grand Knight. He was president of the K of C Home Association. He was a Fourth-Degree member and also served as Faithful Navigator and Purser. He volunteered at the Knights and organized the remodeling of the kitchen and air conditioning system, as well as worked on many projects including, bingo, and breakfast.

Don found joy in every corner of life, embracing each day with a spirit full of adventure and love. A proud life member of the Alpena Sports Hall of Fame and the Walleye Club, Don was passionate about his pursuits. His love for golf, sparked when Blanche purchased a set of clubs at a garage sale, led him to play three times a week. He treasured his time at his beloved river property, where he shared laughter, wisdom, and unforgettable moments with those closest to him.

A man of many talents and an even greater heart, Don was always eager to share his warmth and knowledge. Whether working on projects with Joshua, cooking over the fire with Caleb, or fishing with family and friends, he made each moment special. His pontoon boat rides were legendary, and his love of family knew no bounds. He encouraged everyone to live their best lives, savoring every moment and embracing each new day as a fresh start. Don cherished the simple pleasures: sitting by the fire with loved ones, enjoying boat rides, and embarking on fishing adventures. His legacy is one of love, laughter, and encouragement. “Go and enjoy yourself, life is short,” he would say, reminding us all that love always prevails, and tomorrow is a new day full of promise.

Don’s enduring spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him. May his memory live forever in the hearts of his family, friends, and the countless lives he touched.

He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 65 years, Blanche, his daughter Julie (Brian) Coleman, two grandsons, Joshua, and Caleb, his daughter, Kathleen (Tim) Scheid, granddaughters, Melissa (Grant) Hultman, Deanna Scheid, and a great granddaughter, Charlotte, a brother, Larry Kaiser, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a sister, Sister Marita MacNall O.P., and a brother, Robert MacNall.

Family will receive friends for visitation at A. E. Ross Funeral Home on Friday, April 11, 2025 from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. with military honors accorded by the U.S. Army and VFW Post 2496 starting at 3 p.m., followed by prayer of the rosary starting at 3:30 p.m., K of C chalice presentation and prayer service starting at 6 p.m. Visitation will continue on Saturday, April 12, 2025 at St. Anne Catholic Church of All Saints Parish from 10 a.m. until the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. with Fr. Emmanuel Finbarr as celebrant. Interment will take place at Holy Cross Cemetery on Monday, April 14, 2025 at 11 a.m. A.E. Ross Funeral Home assisted the family with final arrangements.