Jeff McDonald

Jeffrey Brendan McDonald, 51, of Indianapolis, IN, died June 22, 2018, in New Orleans, LA, on a working trip where he was pursuing knowledge in his passionate quest to grow the business.

Jeff was born April 5, 1967, in Woodland, CA, to Alan and Mary (Yarnell) McDonald. 

Jeff graduated from Indiana University earning a Bachelor of Science in Business and Marketing.   While at IU Jeff met the love of his life, Shelli, in 1986.  They married on November 24, 1990, in Carmel, IN. He was a remarkably talented business leader and entrepreneur, with a unique ability to view things from a 50,000 foot perspective while simultaneously seeing around corners, and minding even the smallest details.  He had a special interest in mentoring, connecting, and encouraging others to fulfill their potential.  

Jeff’s latest (and current) business, Raw Paws Pet Food (e-commerce pet food and treats), is a joint venture started in 2014 by Jeff and his wife Shelli in the hopes of creating better health for pets through nutrition.   Jeff often described Shelli as the heart and soul of the business, while Shelli called him the brains and the brawn.  

 As a community leader, Jeff served on multiple boards including United Way, The Villages, The Indianapolis Zoo, and Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO).  He was also passionate about animal welfare and the empowerment of women.

Jeff’s countless friends loved his quick wit, funny stories, and one liners.  His Super Power was humor - he had the ability to make others belly laugh until it hurt.  He could also be serious and enjoyed deep philosophical discussions and political debates.  He enjoyed telling his friends that while they might be entitled to their own opinions, they were not entitled to their own facts!
Jeff was a lifelong learner who worked hard and played hard.  He loved recording and watching Sunday morning political shows with a cup of coffee and his dogs Bondi and Lincoln beside him.  He loved traveling, attending conferences, and YPO events.  Las Vegas was a favorite destination for food, friends, and poker tournaments!

Jeff had the unique ability to see the best in every situation.  He was genuinely caring and accepting.  He had such a big heart and gave the best bear hugs.  He brightened the room and embraced life every day like it was his last - no regrets - we all need to live like he did.  He lived more in his 51 years than most would in 100.  He truly lived his life with purpose.

 He will be missed but never forgotten.

Jeff is survived by his wife Shelli; mother Mary (David) Mandeville of Grove, OK; brother Tom McDonald of Lafayette, IN; sister Linda (James) Frank of Stillwater, OK; nieces and nephews Evan & Arlen Frank of Stillwater, OK; Chad & Alex McDonald of Lafayette, IN; Luke & Evan Beaver; Will, Levi, & Adrieana Beaver; Van & Calla Adams;  parents-in-law Charlie (Shelly) Beaver of Morgantown, IN;  Pam (Larry) Guinn of Martinsville, IN;  brothers-in-law Ken Beaver of Morgantown, IN; Chuck (Brieana) Beaver of Morgantown, IN; and sister-in-law Samantha (Jeff) Adams of Morgantown, IN; also his dogs Bondi & Lincoln; and numerous friends and relatives.
 He was preceded in death by his father Alan McDonald and his brother Pete McDonald.
Memorial contributions may be made to:
Humane Society of Indianapolis
 (7929 N. Michigan Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268)  Indianapolis Animal Care Services (2600 S. Harding St., Indianapolis, IN 46221)
Pass the Torch for Women.org (8500 Keystone Crossing, Suite 420, Indianapolis, IN 46240)

 A Celebration of Jeff’s Life will be held at The Lodge (6729 Westfield Blvd., Indianapolis) on Sunday, August 5, from 2-5pm.  There will be speakers, light appetizers, beverages, and lots of laughter.