Barbara Jean McDonald

Barbara Jean McDonald died peacefully with her family by her side on June 19th, at Evergreen Hospice in Kirkland Washington. She had been receiving visitors during the last few days of her life including both of her children and their spouses, her 6 grandchildren, and most of her 8 great grandchildren. Up until her death, Barbara had been living in her home in Medina where she had raised her family, and where she had spent the majority of her 93 years.

Barbara was born to Arthur and Fanny Balkema on June 2nd 1923. They lived in Laurelhurst where she graduated from Roosevelt High School and attended the University of Washington. During High School Barbara met her husband, the love of her life, Stanley B. McDonald, who became a well-known Seattle businessman, founder of Princess Cruises and west coast cruise pioneer. As a result, Barbara and Stan travelled extensively with friends, relatives, and family throughout the world. Stanley's success was truly enhanced with Barbara by his side. Barbara and Stan celebrated their 70th anniversary on April 2, 2014. Stan passed away later that year at the age of 94. Barbara and Stan were devoted to each other throughout their lives and shared their strong sense of love and commitment with their entire family.

Barbara is survived by her daughter Laurie McDonald Jonsson, son-in-law Lars Jonsson, son Kirby McDonald, and daughter-in-law Diane McDonald. Laurie & Kirby, carrying on her legacy, have both made Bellevue their home, raising their own families, which include 6 grandchildren; Jonas, Marcus and Jenny Jonsson, Scott McDonald, Jamey Kern and Tobey Bryant. In addition, their extended family includes son-in-law; Pete Bryant, and 3 great grandchildren; Ellie, Kirby and Wiley Bryant, son-in-law Mark Kern, and 2 great grandchildren; Hailey and Hunter Kern, and grandson Scott McDonald, and 3 great grandchildren; Spencer, Connor and Cole.

A private family service is planned. In lieu of flowers, the family requests any remembrances be sent to the Swedish Medical Center Stellar Club at community.swedish.org/donate/mcdonald or to Evergreen Hospice. The family would also like to thank the wonderful caregivers whose loving care allowed our Mother to stay in her home.

Barbara, our Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother will be dearly missed by all.