H. Alan “Chico” McDonal, a beloved resident of Centralia, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 16, 2025, at the age of 73.
Born on Thursday, July 26, 1951, in Centralia, the son of Berthold McDonal and Betty (Belt) McDonal. On October 24, 2002, he married the love of his life, Pam (Burton) Lusch. Chico lived a life full of love, dedication, and adventure. He leaves behind a legacy of warmth, strength, and unforgettable memories.
Chico’s career as a Stationary Engineer spanned 39 years at the Warren G. Murray Center in Centralia, where his work and commitment to excellence left a lasting impression on colleagues and friends. Chico also proudly served his country in the Air Force, embodying the values of service and patriotism throughout his life. A man of many passions, Chico found joy in fishing, hunting, and traveling to Canada for memorable fishing trips with his closest buddies. He cherished every moment spent watching his grandchildren participate in sports and was an avid supporter of the Centralia Orphans, the Fighting Illini, and the St. Louis Cardinals. Chico Alan McDonal will be dearly missed by all who knew him, and his spirit will continue to inspire those who were touched by his kindness, humor, and unwavering love for his family.
Chico’s family was his greatest treasure. He is survived by his loving wife of 23 years, Pam McDonal, of Centralia; his children, Jared McDonal and wife Chrissy of Centralia, Justin McDonal and wife Rae Ann of Centralia, Angie Finley and husband Troy of Patoka, Sara Peters and Andy Arenas of Centralia, and Jacob Lusch and wife Jonette of Centralia. He was the proud grandfather of Tyler, Gavin, Landyn, Owen, Brayden, Addy, Creedon, Nash, Emery, Tilly, Cayden, Riley, Lillian, Eli, and Ezra. Chico is also survived by his brothers, Jeff McDonal and wife Cris of California, and Gary “Ponch” McDonal and wife Dorcas of Fort Myers, Florida; sister, Jana Ussery and husband Mike of Centralia; and cherished nieces and nephews, Matt McDonal, Ashley McDonal, Alisha McDonal, Michelle Sisson and husband Andy, and Christa Ussery.
He is preceded in death by his loving parents and his grandson, Holdyn McDonal.
A Celebration of Life to honor Chico will be held on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 7:00 PM at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation from 4:00 PM until the time of the service at the funeral home. Military Honors will be accorded by the Centralia American Legion Post 446 and the Centralia VFW Post 2055 at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home, the evening of the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Pam McDonal, and will be gratefully accepted at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home located at 235 North Sycamore Street, Centralia, Illinois 62801. Those wishing to extend their condolences may do so by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com or the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home Facebook page. The Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home is honored to assist the McDonal family during this time of remembrance.
