John A. McDonald, 86, of Grand Rapids, passed away unexpectedly on March 1, 2010. John A. McDonald, 86, of Grand Rapids, passed away unexpectedly on March 1, 2010. John was born in Balaton, MN and moved with his family as a child to Grand Rapids, where he graduated from high school. John worked for his father's real estate rental business before joining the Army Air Force, serving in Europe, primarily England, during WWII. Upon discharge, John attended Itasca Junior College and Dunwoody technical college. John worked at a barrel making company, and then owned and operated a sporting goods store in Aitkin MN. He co-owned a wood carving business, and later moved to Minneapolis where he worked at Univac. John then returned to Grand Rapids residing on Pokegama Lake where he took over the family business. While in Aitkin during 1960's, John was a Shriner, and a member of the Masonic Lodge and the Jaycees. John was a master wood carver, considered one of the best in the nation. John also was an accomplished painter and musician. Survivors include Cyndi Casey, Tom Casey, Grant Casey, and Violet Casey, Robert Gatz, Penny Gatz, Kim, Rod, Jared, and Travis Kern, Shelly Gatz, and God-daughter Amanda Gatz. John is also survived by cousins, including Mary Nixon, Susan & Ray Boudreau. and others, and his cat, Moe. Services were held on Thursday March 4. Burial with military honors was in Itasca-Calvary Cemetery.