Kathryn Lee MacDonald

Kathryn “Lee” MacDonald, 92, of Buchanan, MI, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, November 30, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on June 14, 1933, in Niles, MI, Lee was the cherished daughter of Frank and Frances (Coda) Roti, second generation Italian immigrants, and this remained a rich part of her heritage. She was Salutatorian of her Buchanan graduating class and voted best dancer.  

On May 14, 1955, she married John Hugh MacDonald, and together they built a wonderful life in Buchanan, raising four children and creating a loving home. Prior to marriage, she worked as a switchboard operator for Clark Equipment Company. After marriage she focused on being a homemaker but in later years managed a branch of the auto title and license bureau where she was beloved by dealers for her exceptional customer service and smile.

Lee resided in her hometown of Buchanan her entire life and was known throughout the community for her sweet nature and kind words.  She was a caretaker at heart, devoting her entire life to caring for parents, relatives and her husband. Food was her love language. Lee’s kitchen was filled with laughter and amazing family recipes. Sundays after Mass and holiday dinners always included her famous spaghetti sauce and the aroma of it simmering on the stove will forever be remembered. A devout Catholic, Lee was a familiar face at several parishes including St. Mary’s of Niles where some of her children and grandchildren attended school, and her home parish of St. Anthony’s in Buchanan. She was the first volunteer for fundraisers, including standing outside Burger King for hours to sell the famous coupon books for her grandchildren. She was a passionate donor and supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 

She will be remembered as a fiercely loyal and protective mother and grandmother; the woman that would drop everything to take care of a sick grandbaby or a stray dog; and the friend that never missed cards, bowling or line dancing with her friends.

Lee is survived by her children, John (Susan) MacDonald of Houston, Texas, Cheryl (Thomas Armstrong) MacDonald of Salem, Oregon, Frank (Larissa) MacDonald of Waverly, Ohio, and Natasha Stickovich of Edwardsburg, Michigan; stepdaughter, Michele (Patrick) Hayes  of Redford, Michigan; nineteen grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; her cherished Pomeranian Petey, and her companion of 20 years, Robert Kerns. She is preceded in death by her husband of 48 years, John; parents, Frank and Frances; sister, Connie Mason; brother, Salvatore Roti; and beloved granddaughter, Meghan Elaine Rifenberg.

In keeping with Lee’s wishes, cremation will take place.  Palmer Funeral Home-Hoven Chapel has been entrusted with the arrangements.  A graveside service, which will include the Catholic Rite of Committal, will take place June 2026 at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Buchanan followed by a celebration of Lee’s life. Please check her obituary for updates service on time and date. 
Memorial contributions in memory of Lee may be given to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Fernwood Botanical Garden, 13988 Range Line Rd, Niles, MI 49120.
Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com

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