Jeffrey James "J.J." Donaldson

J.J. was born on February 21, 1996 in Evanston, IL to Jeffrey and Annette (née Miller) Donaldson. J.J. grew up in Gurnee, IL where he graduated from Warren Township High School. Before his passing, he lived in Columbus, WI with his fiancée, Katie Bertram, and their dog, Callie, in a house they bought together in May of 2021.

Jeff loved kids, and after high school, he worked as a summer camp counselor for the Gurnee Park District, where he met his fiancée, Katie. His love for camp had been previously nurtured by many camping trips with family, his summers at Camp Jorn as a camper, and later as a counselor at Camp Jorn. His love for kids also extended beyond camp, as he adored his nephew, Wyatt, and enjoyed playing a big role in his life.

Jeff had a smile that could brighten the room. He had a natural charm that drew people toward him, and he had the ability to be friends with almost anyone. He had a passion for music of all kinds, but especially loved singing and playing his guitar, even though he was nervous about performing in front of others. The outdoors were his element, and he was happiest when could see a blue sky overhead. He especially loved hunting with his big brother, Kevin Ledford, camping, fishing, hiking, boating, and riding around in his bright blue Jeep with the windows rolled down and the top off. He was incredibly intelligent and creative, which resulted in him constantly working with his hands, tinkering, taking things apart and putting them back together, and working on projects with his friends. He also loved spending time with Katie, whether that was going out to a state fair, walking through an antique mall, ice skating, going on a nature walk, or just curling up on the couch with their dog, Callie, and watching a show together.

He is survived by his fiancée, Katie Bertram; parents, Jeffrey and Annette Donaldson; brother, Kevin Ledford (Sara Baar-Ledford); nephew- Wyatt James Ledford: his grandfather, James Donaldson, aunt, Diane Donaldson (Jerry Winslow); aunt, Debbie Donaldson; uncle, Jamie Donaldson (Diane Donaldson); aunt, Susan Jacobson; aunt,Debra Kundert; aunt, Roberta Gordon; aunt, Christina Gordon; and many cousins and extended family. He will forever be missed and loved.

Visitation will be held at Marsh Funeral Home, 305 N. Cemetery Rd, Gurnee, IL 60031 on Saturday, April 16 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. A service celebrating J.J.'s life will follow from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MarshFuneralHome.com

Memorial contributions may be directed to Katie Bertram via venmo @KatieBertram.