Ellen McDonald
July 21, 1936 – January 23, 2025

Ellen McDonald passed away peacefully on January 23, 2025, at White Pine Memory
Care in Blaine, MN. She was cherished by all who had the pleasure of knowing her and
was affectionately known as "Granny" by the staff and residents.

Ellen was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, on July 21, 1936. She grew up in a small
tenement apartment during the hardships of World War II with her parents, William and
Ellen, and her siblings: brothers Billy and Sam, and sisters Nancy, Mary, and Davina.
The children shared a bedroom, making for a lively and crowded household, but those
close quarters fostered a deep familial bond.

Ellen and her sister Davina were inseparable throughout their lives, remaining close
until Ellen's passing. Davina, the only surviving sibling, resides in Northampton,
England. Ellen also had a lifelong best friend, Agnes, with whom she shared many fond
memories, especially their Saturday nights at the dance hall, where they enjoyed the
company of U.S. sailors docked in Leith.

Ellen worked for years in a box factory before transitioning to a career as a geriatric
nurse in Edinburgh. Her compassionate nature shone through in her work, particularly
when she became the devoted caregiver to her mother following a debilitating stroke.
After her mother's passing in 1974, Ellen struggled with grief, and it was decided that a
fresh start in the United States with her sister Mary and Mary's family—husband Jack
and their children Steven, Lori, and Sandy Davis—would be the best path forward.
After moving to the U.S., Ellen built a new life and found fulfillment working at Federal
Cartridge in Anoka. She thrived there, not only as a dedicated employee but also as a talented golfer and bowler, participating on both the company's golf and bowling teams.

She formed many lifelong friendships during her time at Federal Cartridge, most notably
with her dear friend Joyce, whom she fondly called "Joycey."

Ellen will be remembered for her warmth, resilience, unwavering devotion to family and
friends. She brought joy and laughter to those around her, leaving behind cherished
memories that will be treasured forever.

Her funeral service will be held on February 18, 2025, at Trinity Episcopal Church,1415
6th Ave Anoka, MN 55303, at 11:00 a.m. with visitation at 10:00 a.m.. The service will
be followed by a light reception at the church.

"One of the hardest things you will ever have to do is grieve the loss of a person
who is still alive." -  Jeannette Walls