Kathryn "Kay" Elizabeth (Cowan) McDonald joined her eternal sweetheart, Charlie, on June 21st 2021. Born May 17, 1937 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, she lived an amazing 84 years surrounded by loving family and friends enjoying lake life!

Kay grew up in East Grand Rapids with parents Mildred (Shupert) Cowan, Hugh Reid Cowan, and Thelma (Sorter) Cowan. She is fondly remembered by her siblings Ron (Sue Harrison) Cowan, Stuart (Mary ) Cowan, Laura (Richard May) Cowan and Peggy (Richard) Cowan-Wood.

Kay leaves behind a precious legacy of devoted relatives including her daughters Ann Marie (Tim) Nelson and Lorelee (David) McCleary, grandchildren Kathryn, Adam, Nick, David Lee and Carlie as well as several great grandchildren, and an extended group of cousins, nieces and nephews. All three of Kay's parents predeceased her. Her beloved husband, Charles McDonald, passed away in November 2018.

"Kay-Kay", as she was called by her siblings, was a special part of Grand Rapids' YWCA Camp Newaygo as a camper and eventually a counselor. Over the years, she continued the 'camp' experience with her own children and grandchildren. This summer they created a commemorative "KK's Grand Camp" at Murray Lake for her great grandchildren. The beginning of a new tradition Kay-Kay would love!

Kay was a graduate of THE University of Michigan and was proud to share her passion with anyone else sporting maize and blue.

With her camp experience, caring demeanor, and patience, it is not surprising Kay pursued a career as an elementary teacher. She spent 36 years teaching in the Lansing area wrapping up her career by being awarded the Mid-Michigan Teacher of the Year in 1997!

Kay creatively captured her adventures and extended family history in dozens of albums for future generations to enjoy and learn from. Some of her Kropf and Rennels family research is displayed in the Lowell History Museum.

She enjoyed several activities with friends including the United States Power Squadron, bridge club and bowling in Lansing and her Lowell YMCA exercise class.

Kay's adventures included boating on the Great Lakes, camping, winters in Gulf Shores and traveling to England and Alaska. However, there was nothing more special than an evening pontoon ride around Murray Lake.

She devoted the past 40 years to creating a welcoming home on Murray Lake where family and friends could come to reminisce and create new memories.

The family will be hosting a celebration of life on August 15th at 2pm at their home on Murray Lake. Friends and family can also join virtually via a live broadcast from her Facebook page - Kay Cowan McDonald. You can't miss the big "M".

In lieu of flowers or donations, we ask that the next time you take a pontoon boat ride or see a U of M fan, you give a big wave and shout Go Blue!!! (Yep, even if you are a State fan.) Service Details. Celebration of Life Monday, August 15th, 2022 | 2:00pm
When: Monday, August 15th, 2022 2:00pm
Location: Their home on Murray Lake
Address: 11911 4 Mile Rd. NE Lowell 49331