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Deanna “Dee” McDonald passed away suddenly on Sept. 29, 2026, at Deerfield Retirement Community in Urbandale.
Private family services will be held at a later date. Fratzke & Jensen Funeral Home in Alta is in charge of the arrangements.
Dee was born on Oct. 26, 1939, in Cherokee to Andy and Ramona Brechwald. Known to everyone for her kindness and generosity, Dee spent her life making the world a softer, brighter place. She was a loyal wife to her husband, William “Bill” McDonald. Their bond was built on mutual respect, and a lifetime of travel and exploring the world together.
Dee had a special way of showing her love through the everyday things she did for others. She found great joy in cooking, and the kitchen was one of the many places where her generous heart flourished. Preparing meals was more than just cooking for Dee; it was another way to bring people together, make them feel welcome and show them how much they meant to her. Whether sharing a favorite dish or gathering loved ones around the table, she understood that some of life’s best moments happen over a home-cooked meal.
Dee had a funny sense of humor and a quick wit that could brighten anyone’s day. She was the family’s go-to weather forecaster, keeping everyone informed and prepared for whatever the weather might bring. She was also an avid Iowa Hawkeyes fan who proudly cheered on her favorite team.
Dee’s warmth, humor, generosity and loving spirit will live on in the countless lives she touched and the memories her family and friends will cherish for years to come.
Dee was preceded in death by her husband William “Bill” McDonald; her brother Dean Brechwald; and infant daughter Amy Jo McDonald.
She is survived by her beloved children: Cathy (Bill) Thompson, Jim (Tracy) McDonald, Tom (Michelle) McDonald and Kari (Tony) Dressen; her 12 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; her twin brother Dennis (Linda) Brechwald; sister Darlys Brechwald; and a loving community of friends who will deeply miss her.
Per Dee’s wishes, a small, private ceremony has been arranged. In honor of her generous spirit and her love of human connection, the family invites you to hug your loved ones a little tighter today. Those wishing to honor her memory may consider donating to the Urbandale Food Pantry https://urbandalefoodpantry.org/ or Canine Companions https://canine.org/
