Josephine E. McDonald

Josephine Elizabeth McDonald died Sunday, February 12, 2007 in her sleep in Boca Raton, Florida. Josephine was the daughter of Elizabeth and Stephen Elholm of Racine, Wisconsin, born on June 30, 1922. She was the wife of renowned architect, John Randal McDonald, who predeceased her on December 3, 2003.

Josephine was the mother of 6 children, Karen Randal Toryak, Jan Randal, Lin Randal Thomas, John Randal McDonald III and Mark McDonald. Her daughter Diane died shortly after her birth. Josephine is also survived by 5 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren, who live in St. Paul, MN, Jupiter Beach, FL, St Croix, Virgin Islands and Philadelphia, PA.

Josephine graduated from the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, where she studied biology and music and received a degree in education. She taught elementary school during WWII. It was during this time when she met her husband to be, John, who besides becoming architect was also a drummer. When friends saw, Josephine carrying John’s drums, they knew marriage would soon follow. During the war, Josephine travelled by train to La Jolla, CA where John’s naval ship was stationed there. They were married in full military fashion, marching down the aisle under crossed swords. She returned to Racine, WI. When the war ended, she joined her husband in New Haven, CT while he attended Yale University, receiving top honors in his field of architecture.

Josephine worked along side her husband for over 50 years, managing his offices in Racine, WI, Indian Rocks Beach, FL, St. Croix, Virgin Islands and Boca Raton, FL. She was a tireless worker and problem solver, meeting challenges with grace. As a member of the Junior League she devoted her time to hospitals. She loved hibiscus flowers and wore one behind her ear for all occasions.

Josephine was beloved by everyone who met her. She never met a stranger. She will be deeply missed.

A memorial service will be held at the First United Methodist Church of Boca Raton on Friday February 17, 2017 at 3 PM.

Arrangements under the direction of Babione-Kraeer Funeral Home, Boca Raton, FL.