Obituary of James Douglas Stephen McDonald

James McDonald, a cherished soul whose warmth, wisdom, and compassion touched everyone around him, passed away on Friday November 1, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. Throughout the years, James faced his illness with incredible strength, enduring every challenge with positivity, and the selflessness that defined him. His journey was marked by an unwavering resolve to put others first, and his impact on those he loved will never be forgotten.

James was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother – a man through and through. He was a mentor and life coach, a therapist who guided countless lives, offering comfort, insight, and encouragement to those who sought his counsel. His kindness was a beacon, his wisdom a gift, and his smile a source of joy for all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A passionate performer, James had a love for music that transcended the ordinary. He lived to sing and rock out on stage, sharing his talent and bringing happiness to the audiences with his energy and spirit. Away from the stage he found peace in the kitchen, and cooking on the BBQ where he loved to chef up a delicious ribeye or any meal that brought family and friends together. Ever the lively character, his habit of always talking too much during movies brought smiles to those who shared those moments, as did his infectious laughter and big-hearted spirit.

James found a profound influence in Buddhism throughout his life, shaping his values and the man he became. His journey in faith guided his choices and filled him with a deep sense of compassion, mindfulness, wisdom and peace. James will be remembered as someone who lived fully, loved deeply, and gave generously. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched and the memories he created with family and friends. His love, courage, and laughter will forever be cherished and missed.

Survived by his loving wife Jean Tsinokas, his daughter Mikayla (husband Rustam) Khan, stepsons Justin (wife Alex) Glover, and Kevin Glover, and grandchildren Jaxon, Coen, and Morgan. James will be missed by his brother Michael McDonald, his sisters and brothers-in-law, Carol and Mike Banducci, Dan and Dorothy Tsinokas, Diana Tsinokas, and David and Marella Tsinokas, as well as his father in law, Tom Tsinokas. He will also be missed by his nieces and nephews.

Predeceased by his parents, Mary Kathleen (nee Middleton), and Douglas Haig McDonald; his sisters, Heather Ann Thorne, and Susan (Tom) Tweed, and mother-in-law, Aphroditi Tsinokas.

Special thanks to the medical staff at Grand River Hospital/Cancer Clinic and Juravinski Cancer Clinic, Dr. Joanna Graczyk, Dr. Hira Mian, and Dr. Leonard along with all the wonderful, caring nurses.

A celebration of James’s life will be held at Erb & Good Family Funeral Home on Saturday November 23 at 11am in the Fireside Reception Room.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Multiple Myeloma Canada in honour of James’s life and battle with cancer. Donations can be made at www.erbgood.com