John “Don” McDougall

 John Donald "Don" McDougall passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at the age of 87.

Born on December 30, 1938, in Wyandotte, Michigan, Don was the son of Karl L. and Lyla H. McDougall. He grew up with his sisters, Flora Andrus and Margaret Reitz, and developed the faith, character, and love of family that would guide him throughout his life.

A graduate of Allen Park High School, Don attended Asbury College and Taylor University, graduating in 1962. That same year, he married the love of his life, Janice McDougall. Together they shared more than six decades of marriage, building a life centered on faith, family, education, music, and service to others.

Don dedicated his professional career to education, teaching music in the Wyoming Public Schools system and science and mathematics in the Northview Public Schools system. He was respected by students and colleagues alike for his knowledge, patience, and commitment to helping others learn and succeed. Many former students remember him not only as a teacher, but also as a mentor who encouraged curiosity, discipline, and lifelong learning.

Music was one of Don's greatest passions and it became a lifelong ministry. For nearly five decades, he served as a choir director, singer, accompanist, and mentor. Over a 47-year career directing choirs, he led music ministries at Grace Reformed Church, Grace Lutheran Church, Bethany Lutheran Church, Fourth Reformed Church, Sounds of Joy, and other organizations. 

Don also loved singing and was a member of numerous church and community choirs over the years, including the Calvin Oratorio Society, Sacred Tones, Metropolitan Choir of Praise, and several church choirs throughout West Michigan. Through both leadership and participation, he shared his love of sacred music with countless congregations, audiences, and fellow musicians. His faith found expression through music, and his musical gifts enriched the lives of many.

Throughout his life, Don was an active member of several church communities, including Grace Reformed Church, Grace Bible Church, Calvary Church, Frederica United Methodist Church, and Grandville United Methodist Church. His faith was the foundation of his life and guided his service to family, church, and community. He also generously volunteered his time and talents, including service to veterans and others in need.

Above all, Don cherished his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose kindness, encouragement, and steady presence blessed those around him. He took great pride in the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren and treasured the time spent with them.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Karl and Lyla McDougall; and his sister, Flora Andrus.

Don is survived by his beloved wife, Janice McDougall; his son, Rob McDougall; his daughter, Rebecca (Brian) Schaffer; his grandchildren, Miriam Schaffer, Lydia Schaffer, and Odin McDougall; and his sister, Margaret Reitz. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Don's life on Friday, June 26, 2026. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. at Grandville United Methodist Church, 3140 Wilson Avenue SW, Grandville, Michigan 49418, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 11:00 a.m. A graveside service will be held at 12:15 p.m. at Grandville Cemetery, 3570 Prairie Street SW, Grandville, Michigan 49418. Lunch and fellowship for family and friends will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the church.

Don will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his love for Janice and his family, his dedication to teaching, and the joy he brought to others through music. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the students he taught, the congregations he served, and the family he loved so deeply. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Faith in Deeds.