Obituary of Marilou T. McDonald

Marilou Tacke McDonald was born on January 2, 1928 in Chicago Illinois to Louis Tacke and Anne Agnew. She earned her nursing degree at Passaic General Hospital and enlisted in the US Navy in the 1940’s as part of the war effort. While stationed in San Diego, CA in 1950 she married Maurice (Mick) McDonald (1922-2020). For seventy years, they were a powerful example of love and commitment to each other and their children.

Marilou (Malu or Lou) was interested in many things. She was a lifelong gardener and wildlife enthusiast and one of the best organized people on the planet.  She embraced creativity and appreciation for day-to-day things, and she instilled all these gifts in the people around her.  She was active in the Morristown Beautiful campaign in the mid-1970s and 80s. Marilou was also a champion of historic preservation in Morris County, especially Acorn Hall, where she led efforts in the Bookstore and Gift Shop in the 1970s.

To her family and friends, Marilou was loving and inspirational. She was witty and strong and fun to be with. Her life was full and honest and a model for those she left behind. Marilou passed peacefully on May 22, 2026 surrounded by family.  She was looking forward to reuniting with Mick in her final days. She is survived by her four children: (Jill, Jack, Wendy and Susan), seven grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.