Bruce Earl McDonald

Bruce Earl McDonald, 84, of Gobles, passed away Saturday, July 19, 2025.

He was born October 18, 1940, in Kalamazoo, the son of Malcolm S. McDonald and Doris Mae (Coburn) McDonald.

On October 9, 1964, he married Carol (Derhammer) McDonald who preceded him in death January 11, 2025.

Bruce was a dedicated athlete from a young age, beginning his sports journey at Portage High School in the late 1950s. A proud member of the Class of 1958, he served as co-captain of the football team and was named city MVP for four consecutive years—an accomplishment that spoke to his talent, leadership, and love of the game. Bruce was passionate about football, baseball, and basketball, and his enthusiasm for sports remained a constant throughout his life. After high school, he attended Western Michigan University and went on to build a successful career in the banking industry, starting as a teller for First National Bank and retiring as branch manager in Gobles. Bruce and his beloved wife Carol shared a love for travel, taking many road trips together to enjoy the outdoors and discover new places. Some of their favorite places to visit were South Haven to watch the sunset, and Traverse City for weekend getaways. At home, he took pride in keeping a beautifully manicured yard. More than anything, Bruce cherished time with his grandchildren and family, always making them his top priority. He never missed a sporting event for his kids or grandkids and was sure to spend plenty of time tending to his family relationships.

He is survived by his two sons, Tim (Jen) McDonald and David (Shannon) McDonald, six grandchildren, Alea (Aaron) Michelli, Colin McDonald, Savannah McDonald, Jaxson (Mara) Schrock, Kameron Schrock and Aydon Bannister, along with one great-grandchild, Jackson. Bruce was preceded in death by his father, mother, and brother, Allen McDonald.

Family and friends are invited to visit Tuesday, July 29, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at Adams Funeral Home, 502 West Michigan Ave., Paw Paw. Funeral services will follow on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. with a time of visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Sheila Baker officiating. Interment will take place at Robinson Cemetery. Following the internment, the family invites family and friends to a luncheon at Gobles United Methodist Church, 210 Exchange Street, Gobles.

Memorial contributions may be directed to GKAMA food pantry located at Gobles United Methodist Church, 210 Exchange Street, Gobles, MI, 49055.