James Stuart MacDonald Jr.

James Stuart MacDonald, Jr., affectionately known as Jim, passed away peacefully at
his home in Prineville, Oregon on May 15, 2025 at the age of 73. Jim was born on
September 28,1951 in Prineville to James Stuart and Anne (Mitchell) MacDonald, Jim
was a beloved son, friend, and community member whose life was marked by
dedication, passion, and service.
Jim was a lifelong resident of Prineville where he attended local schools before
spending two years in Huntington Beach, California, graduating in 1969. He continued
his education at Oregon State University and the University of Oregon, fostering his
lifelong love of learning. 
 
In 1989, Jim married Cindy Balzer. They shared many of the same interests and happy
times in their 36 years of marriage. They traveled throughout the Northwest with their
camper and boat, together with their treasured pets. They enjoyed sightseeing, fishing,
and the many people they met along the way. 
With a career spanning over forty years in the wood products industry, Jim became a
respected figure in his field. He began his career as a certified lumber grader for
Hudspeth Pine and Prairie Wood Products, and later served as the Lumber Quality
Assurance Manager for Contact Lumber Company until his retirement in 2013. After
retiring, Jim found joy volunteering at the Prineville Golf Club, sharing his love of golf,
and caring for the course.
A dedicated community member, Jim served on the boards of Oregonians Credit Union
and the Crook County Foundation. He was also elected to the Prineville City Council
where he contributed his time and leadership from 2008-2011.
Jim's greatest passion was fishing. From his school days onward, he was known as “Mr.
Fish” among friends and admirers in the fishing community. An expert at catching fish
and teaching others, Jim spent countless hours on the Crooked River, Deschutes,
Columbia, and local lakes. His knowledge and generosity made him a beloved figure
among fellow anglers, and his commitment to responsible fishing left a lasting
impression.
Jim is survived by his wife, Cindy, sisters Anne Porter of Redmond, Elizabeth Casey of
Bend, and brother, Tom (Nancy), of Prineville. He is also survived by several nieces
and nephews.  
 
Jim was preceded in death by his father, James Stuart MacDonald in 2000, his mother
Anne (Mitchell) MacDonald in 2010, and two nieces, Sarah MacDonald, and Cathy
Weiss. Jim will be deeply missed by family, friends, and all who knew him.
A funeral Mass will be held for Jim on June 4, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph’s
Catholic Church in Prineville. There will be a Rosary prior to the Mass at 10:30 a.m.
Interment to follow the funeral at Juniper Haven Cemetery. At 2 pm on June 21, 2025,
there will be a celebration of life for Jim at the Prineville Golf Club.

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