Myrtle L. McDonald, 97, of Coldwater, passed away on Monday, January 19, 2015 at her home. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are being cared for by Dutcher Funeral Home in Coldwater.
Myrtle was born January 6, 1918 in Seattle, Washington, the third child of Grover and Cora West. Soon after her birth, the family relocated to Michigan, where they had lived before moving to Seattle. Myrtle’s childhood was spent in Lansing, Charlotte and Burr Oak where she graduated from high school.
Myrtle married Grafton Ray Norton and moved to Coldwater, where they lived for eighteen years. Three children Nancy Jo, Terri Ellen Norton and Duane A. Norton resulted from the marriage.
Employed by the Coldwater State Home and Training School, she started as an aide and advanced to recreation instructor and supervisor.
A second marriage to Richard Eugene McDonald in 1959 lasted until his death in 2004.
Myrtle’s interests included music and musical instruments. At various times she played the piano, organ, harmonica, guitar, accordion and omnichord. In addition, she enjoyed writing poems, an interest shared with her mother and Uncle Burke Nickels.
In later life, Myrtle was active in the Seventh Day Adventist Church, where she volunteered at the Coldwater Adventist Community Service Center. She also was Sabbath School teacher for at least ten years. In addition, she made regular financial contributions to needy families in Kenya, Africa.
Myrtle is survived by her children Duane A. Norton of Coldwater, Terri E. Powers of Battle Creek, grandchildren Gail M. Tyner, Robbert Cesena, James Cesena, Walter Whitfield and Dwayne Whitfield, as well as great grandchildren and great, great grandchildren. www.dutcherfh.com.