Robert McDonald, Sr.
Robert “Bob” H. McDonald, Sr., 86, of Brussels, WI, formerly of Green Bay, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday evening, February 17, 2023, enveloped by his children, grandchildren and his loving wife, Joni. He was born on April 17, 1936, in Green Bay to the late Chester and Margaret (Hintz) McDonald. He was a graduate of East High School where he was a standout football player and went on to play semi-pro football with the Manitowoc Chiefs. He recently celebrated 67 years of marriage to his high school sweetheart, Joni Jacobs, who he married on January 21, 1956, at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral in Green Bay. Bob was a beacon of unconditional love and the strength of the human spirit. He loved his family and never missed an opportunity to attend his children’s and grandchildren’s many activities. Spending time with Bob would guarantee a great story and a laugh, whether it be about hunting camp, a fishing trip, a boat trip with family and friends or just another day. Bob had a dry sense of humor and was always good for a witty joke. He had a gift of always seeing the good in people and the humor in almost any situation.
During his life Bob wore many hats. He was the Vice President of McDonald Lumber and Construction. After which he was the owner and operator of the Paradise Club in Green Bay, and then LaMac Environmental Services. He was also a licensed real estate broker for several years. In addition to being an avid hunter, fisherman, boater, and family man, he also was a scuba diver with the “Mud Puppies” scuba diving club, a member and Past Master of the Masonic Temple, he was a Noble Shriner, he served with the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, was a member of the Green Bay Yacht Club and the Pazaza Club. You may also remember him as “Chef Bob McDonald” of TV’s Durkee’s Backyard BBQ. His family enjoyed his cooking, especially the sweet rolls and pickled cauliflower.
His legacy of unconditional love will live on through those who survived him: his beloved wife Joni; children, Martie McDonald, Beckie (Zingler) Decker, Peggie (Tom Reivitis) McDonald, Tommie McDonald, Donnie (Leanne) McDonald, Mark McDonald and Joe (fiancée, Claudia Kinjerski) McDonald, daughter-in-law, Cindy McDonald; 24 grandchildren; 24 great grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Robert McDonald, Jr.; son-in-law, Dewey “Duke” Decker; sisters and brothers-in-law, Shirley (Bill) Howerton and Ora (Earl) Bleser; brothers and sisters-in-law, Chester (Sally) McDonald, Ronald “Red” (Sharon) McDonald and James (Ardy) McDonald; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Ronald (Merc) Jacobs.
Friends may call at the Proko-Wall Funeral Home, 1630 E. Mason St., on Thursday, February 23, 2023, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Visitation will continue on Friday, February 24, 2023, at the funeral home from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Funeral service 11:00 a.m. Friday at the funeral home. Burial will take place in Underhill Cemetery. Online condolences may be expressed at www.prokowall.com.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Bob’s oncologist, Dr. Dave Groteluschen, for providing life extending care to him.