Donald James McCarthy, 98, of Whitehall, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on August 29, 2026.

Donald was born on June 26, 1928, in Ludington, Michigan, to David and Eva McCarthy. After graduating from high school, he served his country in the United States Navy aboard the U.S.S. Duluth. On April 19, 1949, Donald married his beloved wife, Ruth. Together, they raised five children and nurtured their family, which includes nine grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson.

An avid traveler, outdoorsman, and golfer, Donald enjoyed many happy days fishing with family and friends along the rivers of West Michigan. He loved animals, was known for telling great stories, and inspired many with his faith.

Donald owned and operated the McCarthy Cooper Insurance Agency in Muskegon and served as the mayor of Roosevelt Park before moving to Whitehall. He was a dedicated and active member of Faith Lutheran Church in Whitehall.

Donald is survived by his wife of 77 years, Ruth Elaine McCarthy; daughters, Linda (Edward) Rostar, Brenda (Daniel) McCarthy Wiener, and Michelle (Jeffrey) Warda; grandchildren, Peter (Amanda) McCarthy, Adam (Julia) McCarthy, Kylee (Alex) Reinke, Dillon (Janelle) McCarthy, Damien Rostar, Marisa (Matt Fechik) Pelto, Brendan Pelto, Morgan (Michael) Jennings, and Chandler (Shelby) Warda; as well as brothers, David (Liz) McCarthy and Dennis McCarthy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, David and Eva McCarthy; his son and daughter-in-law, Donald Craig and Peggy McCarthy; his son, Brian Jay McCarthy; his sister and brother-in-law, Sharon and Robert Mitchell; and his sister-in-law, Karen McCarthy.

Memorial services will be conducted at 11:00 AM, Friday, September 11, 2026, at Faith Lutheran Church, 711 Alice Street, Whitehall, MI 49461, with visitation being held one hour before the service at 10:00AM, with Reverend Matthew Gunia presiding.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Faith Lutheran Church in Whitehall, in Donald’s honor.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, White Lake Chaple is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com