Paul T. McDonald

Paul T. McDonald, 87, of Janesville, passed away on June 25, 2026, at Mercyhealth Hospital, Janesville.

Paul was born on July 8, 1938, in Bell Center, Wisconsin, to Alta (Taft) and James McDonald. On October 17, 1964, he married Sandra Nicholson, who would be his wife for more than four decades.

Paul was a farmer at heart and spent most of his life doing the work he loved. He was happiest out on the land with his animals and his tractors, and even in later years he would drive the backroads just to check on the crops and see how the neighbors' fields were coming in. He was never afraid of hard work, and farming and country life were the center of who he was. He also served in the United States Army, and for 27 years he worked at JATCO in Janesville.

Paul had a personality that filled a room. Quick-witted and full of spirit, he had a great sense of humor and a way with people that no one ever forgot. He was a regular wherever he went, and the people who saw him day in and day out came to know him and look forward to having him around. He was a proud member of the Moose Club and an avid polka dancer who traveled the country to dance at polka festivals. Music, dancing, and good company brought him real joy.

Paul was also an active member of St. John Vianney Catholic Church in Janesville, where he valued the fellowship and community he found over the years.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents and by his wife, Sandra McDonald, who passed away on June 29, 2005. He missed her every day and spoke of her often.

He is survived by his children, Jean (Rob) McConnell, Tim (Lisa) McDonald, David (Emily) McDonald, and Annette (Toby) Mashek; his special friend, Donna Henry; his nine grandchildren, Mallory (Dan) Vyvyan, Nathan (Avonlea Odling) McConnell, Rachel (Sam) Metcalf, Emily Nelson, Colin (Anjelica) McDonald, Lauren McDonald, Skylar (Sarah) Mashek, Olivia (Chris Spears) McDonald, and Gavin McDonald; six great-grandchildren; three step-great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 2, 2026, beginning at 10 a.m. at ST. JOHN VIANNEY CATHOLIC CHURCH, Janesville, with a Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11:30 a.m. Burial will take place after the service at Emerald Grove Cemetery with military rites by Kienow-Hilt V.F.W. Post # 1621

HENKE-CLARSON FUNERAL HOME is assisting the family. Online condolences can be shared at www.henkeclarson.com.