With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved John George Fraser Macdonald, of Farmington Hills, MI, who passed away on December 1, 2024, at the age of 85.

Fraser lived life with humbleness, strength, determination, humor, intelligence, wisdom and empathy which he shared with everyone who came to know him.

Fraser's life was an incredible journey and story. Fraser was born in Montreal, Québec Canada on March 30, 1939. Fraser's great-grandfather, Donald Alexander and his brother, John Sandfield Macdonald were instrumental in shaping the history of Ontario, Canada at the time of Confederation. Fraser spoke fondly of his memories of his parents and siblings, life in Alexandria and visiting his grandmother's home in Mount Royal, Montreal, enjoying home-cooked French meals, and riding his bike throughout the city.

As a young man, Fraser worked as a crewman on ships traveling through the St. Lawrence Seaway. After completing his bachelor's degree in engineering at Loyola College in Montreal and Ryerson University in Toronto, he became a successful mechanical engineer in the United States. He worked in the aerospace, tank, automotive and mechanical engineering industry with a specialty in torque converter clutch design. He was highly adept at mathematics and was awarded over 20 patents for his mechanical inventions. Fraser worked at Sundstrand Corporation, Warner Electric (Brake and Clutch Division), General Motors Cadillac (Tank Division), Ford Motor Company (Livonia Transmission for 23 years), and as a private consultant to LUK Schaeffler until he retired in 2008.

Fraser immigrated from Canada to Rockford, Illinois in 1967. He met his beloved wife, Shirley Anne Magnuson, in 1968. After accepting a job offer at Ford Motor Company, Fraser moved his family to Farmington Hills, MI in 1979. Fraser and Shirley traveled throughout the Midwest, studied local history together and worked on custom features of their treasured home in Farmington Hills. They became cat lovers over the years; Holly was his best buddy and Sammy was a comfort to him. Fraser and Shirley celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary in July, 2024.

Fraser had a lifelong passion for reading and studying about trains, boats, planes, and automobiles. He became a Model O Gauge train collector and his favorite trains were the Union Pacific and the Santa Fe. His passion was also cars, knowing every make and model. He also test drove vehicles for Ford. Fraser loved to draw mechanical ideas. He loved music and played a bit of the piano, enjoyed Elvis, Johnny Cash and was often tapping his foot to polka music on Saturday nights. Fraser was an avid golfer, having spent many years on the golf courses in Oakland County, Michigan and around the U.S. during his annual trips with his friends. He was captain of his golf club for several years. Fraser had a true love for the beauty and history of the Detroit area.

Fraser felt that you should live life looking forward despite any obstacle, to be strong, and to treat others with kindness. These attributes helped him overcome significant health challenges. His stoic strength, gentle disposition and witty humor were always present during his health journey. The family will be forever grateful for the medical professionals and caretakers who made Fraser feel loved and cared for.

There are a few people who touched Fraser's life deeply who the family would like to acknowledge. Fraser spoke often of his dear friend, Larry Bates, and loved his quote: "Nothing to it but to do it!" And, Fraser kept "the motor running" for his friend, Matt. He always wanted the very best for his children and grandchildren.

Fraser is survived by his loving wife Shirley, children Janet Macdonald (Matthew Pearce), John (Michelle) Macdonald, Joni Elliott, Jean (Bernard) D'Ascenzo, grandchildren Devon, Colton, Nick, Alex, Brent, Blake, sister Mary (Frank) Stanczyk, nieces Arlene Macdonald and Carole Kuhlberg, nephews Robert Macdonald (Evelyn Keuken) and Michael Stanczyk. Fraser was predeceased by his father and mother, Ronald and Madeleine Macdonald, brother, Robert (Rita) Macdonald and sister, Frances (Guy) Lauzon.

When the first snow of winter gently fell, you left this world like a shooting star. We love you eternally.

Quand la première neige de l'hiver est tombée doucement, tu as quitté ce monde telle une étoile filante. Nous t'aimons éternellement.

Fraser's family will receive guests at the funeral home on Saturday, April 5, from 2-4 pm.  The memorial service will commence at 4 pm and continue until 5 pm.

If you would like to make a donation in Fraser's memory, the family welcomes donations to the Michigan Humane Society .