Andrew John "AJ" McDonald

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Andrew John "AJ" McDonald, who left us tragically on March 18, 2025, at the age of 20. Born on May 13, 2004, in Merriam, Kansas, AJ was a vibrant soul whose life, though brief, touched many with his kindness, enthusiasm, and love. 

AJ passed away while skiing in Winter Park, Colorado, engaging in one of the adventurous activities he adored. He was a planner and an adventurer with an unrivaled zest for life. Known for his generous spirit and the best hugs, AJ's sensitive and kind heart will be remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.

A proud student of the University of Kansas, AJ was an active member of the Alpha Kappa Lambda (AKL) Fraternity, serving as Chaplain and Brotherhood Team Leader. His academic excellence earned him a spot on the University of Kansas Dean’s List, highlighting his dedication and passion for learning. 

His love for golf was evident in his work at Canyon Farms Golf Club, and he eagerly anticipated his upcoming summer internship with the American Junior Golf Association, where he would have traveled around the country sharing his love for the sport. 

AJ's interests were diverse, ranging from golf and sports—especially anything related to the Iowa Hawkeyes or Kansas Jayhawks—to being a self-proclaimed foodie who appreciated good food. He loved connecting with people and particularly treasured his time spent planning AKL brotherhood activities, events, dinner dates (the more off the beaten path, the better), and memorable trips.

AJ is survived by his loving parents, Ryan and Lindsey McDonald, his beloved sister, Madeline "Maddy" McDonald, and his cherished pets, Barkley and Bella. He leaves behind his grandmothers, Bev Dean and Linda McDonald, and a large extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins who loved him dearly. Preceding him in death are his grandfathers, John McDonald and Steven Dean, who surely welcomed him into heaven with open arms.

 AJ's legacy lives on in the memories of basketball games with his good buddies, dad, and cousins, his ability to sense and ease people's worries, and his insistence on making genuine connections. His absence creates an irreplaceable void, yet his spirit endures through stories told and retold by those he loved.

Services honoring AJ's life will begin with a visitation from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, March 24, 2025, at The Amos Family Funeral Home in Shawnee. A Funeral Mass will be held the following day, Tuesday, March 25, at 4:00 p.m., at St. Joseph Catholic Church, located at 11311 Johnson Drive, Shawnee, KS 66203. This church holds special significance, as it is where AJ was baptized and received his early education and nurturing care.

In his memory, AJ encourages us all to express kindness, continue saying his name, and tell his stories. Though our relationship with him has changed, it is not over. He now watches over us as a guardian angel, reminding us to cherish each moment and hold each other close. 

He is greatly missed, but his gentle spirit will forever reside in our hearts, guiding us with the love he so freely gave. In place of flowers, take a friend out for some good food and a catch-up session. 

The family has also established the AJ McDonald Legacy Fund for those who wish to contribute in his honor.

If you would like to watch the funeral mass for AJ click here