With heavy hearts, we announce the sudden passing of John M MacDougall, age 55, on January 15, 2026. Born on October 1, 1970, in Norristown, PA, John was a beloved son, husband, father, brother, and friend whose warmth and kindness touched everyone he met.
John was the cherished son of Hope S MacDougall and the late John (Jack) W MacDougall. He was predeceased by his brother in law Steven Goyette. He shared 28 wonderful years of marriage with his devoted wife, Carla (Walker) MacDougall. Together, they built a loving family and raised three incredible children: Allison L, Jack H, and Anna M. John’s family circle also includes his dear sister Julie (MacDougall) Morgan and brother-in-law Adam Morgan; sisters-in-law Donna-Lee (Goyette) Nattrass, Barbara (Goyette) Blue, and Nance (Goyette) Duncan; brother-in-law Greg R Goyette; and nephews Andrew & Lindsay (Hudson) Morgan and Philip Morgan. He will be fondly remembered by many cousins and friends whose lives he brightened.
John grew up in King of Prussia, PA. Sports were a big part of John’s early years and were a special bond he shared with his father, Jack. As spectators, they would root for the Eagles and Phillies, and watch college basketball together. They could often be seen shooting hoops in the driveway, playing catch in the yard, or having batting practice at Caley Elementary. Jack also coached John’s rec basketball team. After sitting through a few of his sister’s torturously long and hot swim meets, John decided to join her on the Upper Merion Aquatic Club swim team. It was on the Marlins and the Stingrays that John developed a love of swimming and made many lifelong friends. John was a 1988 graduate of Upper Merion Area High School where he captained the swim team, played baseball, and was a member of the National Honor Society.
He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Lafayette College in 1992. From his Brothers: Many people’s lives were changed for the better when John MacDougall first walked through the doors of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) fraternity at Lafayette College. John’s quiet demeanor was partnered with an ever-present, room brightening smile. John made friends wherever he went, many lasting well over 30 years, and his “brothers” can be found from the east to the west coast. John has been a part of numerous weddings, group vacations, golf outings, as well as smaller get-togethers. The True Gentleman is a poem, which represents the ideals of SAE, and is required to be memorized by all brothers, a portion is below:
“… a man who speaks with frankness but always with sincerity and sympathy; whose deed follows his word; who thinks of the rights and feelings of others, rather than his own; and who appears well in any company, a man with whom honor is sacred and virtue safe.”
John Macdougall exemplified these attributes and is considered a True Gentleman, who will be sorely missed by those fortunate enough to call him a friend and a brother.
John dedicated more than 23 years of his life to Phoenix Contact, serving as a respected and dedicated leader within the Sales organization. Throughout his tenure, he was unwavering in his commitment to customers, always ensuring their needs were met with diligence and care. John worked tirelessly to build and maintain strong partnerships that benefited both the company and its clients. His devotion extended to his team, whom he regarded as family. John’s leadership was characterized by genuine support and encouragement, creating an environment in which his colleagues felt valued and inspired. His positive attitude and warm, welcoming smile were a constant source of motivation and comfort to those around him.
In 1994, John moved to Rochester, NY, where fate brought him together with Carla at Hot Shots Volleyball. Their shared love of volleyball blossomed into a deep friendship and, eventually, a beautiful partnership. As teammates on league and tournament teams, they were truly a great team—on and off the court. Their love story led them to a home in the Park Ave area, where they welcomed their first child, Allison, followed by Jack and Anna. In 2004, the MacDougall family settled in Carla’s hometown of Fairport, where they continued to build lasting friendships and memories.
John was deeply devoted to his family and took immense joy in being part of his children’s lives. He was always present – coaching or cheering from the sidelines at lacrosse and hockey games, supporting Anna’s Special Olympics events, and traveling countless miles with Carla and Anna to make sure no event was missed. With his encouragement, John began playing in an adult hockey league in his late 40s and continued to enjoy the camaraderie and competition every Sunday night. He also became an enthusiastic paddle player at Midvale during the winter months and never missed a chance to play a round of golf, especially on outings and trips with his friends. John’s adventurous spirit led him to complete many triathlons, sometimes with Anna in tow. He cherished time spent outdoors kayaking on the canal, biking, running, and taking walks with Anna and the family dogs. He loved family vacations, concert adventures, college visits, and, most recently, cooking homemade pasta and ravioli for friendly family cook-offs. Above all, John found joy in making his family laugh and feel loved.
John’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and unwavering support for his family and friends. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Calling hours will be held on Friday January 30, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Richard H Keenan Funeral Home, 7501 Pittsford Palmyra Rd, Fairport, New York. A funeral service will take place on Saturday January 31, at 11 a.m. at Browncroft Community Church, 2530 Browncroft Blvd Rochester. Reception to follow at Midvale Country Club, 2387 Baird Rd, Penfield.
In place of flowers, the family requests donations to support Anna MacDougall’s future needs. A Special Needs Trust is being established, but for now, contributions can be sent to a holding account. Please make checks payable to PERSHING, LLC and mail them to Mayeu Financial Group, 1162 Pittsford Victor Rd, Suite 200, Pittsford, NY 14534. Note “For Anna MacDougall” on your check. The family sincerely appreciates your kindness and support.
75 responses to “MacDougall, John M”
Loved John. Devastated by this loss as are so many. He will be truly missed
John was a joy to be around and will be greatly missed. Prayers and hugs to his family.
My heart is breaking for John’s beautiful family, about whom we heard so much in our small group at Browncroft. His pure love for family was so obvious. We enjoyed John’s sense of humor & insight into church sermons & scripture at our meetings. His love & support of Anna was a beautiful example of what it truly means to be a father. He will be sorely missed. Prayers of comfort and peace to the family and his many friends. God speed, John. <3
Love you Doogs. Thanks for making our world a better place. 🙁
I don’t say this often. John was one in a million. Always a kind word, a smile, a hug, or he used his humor to set you straight. I love John and everything he brought to this world. Few people will shine as he did! I will deeply miss my friend!
We are absolutely devastated. One of our favorite wedding pictures is of John hamming it up on the dance floor with “Thriller Hands.” Thank you for sharing so many smiling pictures, for this is exactly how we think of John and will remember him always.
John always had a smile on his face! He was a joy to interact with and will be missed. Prayers to his family.
Carla, I’m am so sorry to hear this! Sending love to you and your wonderful family!
We were saddened to hear of John’s passing. He was always so kind and cheerful when we saw him at school or in the neighborhood. Sending love and prayers to your family!
My friendship with John was brief but special. As his paddle partner he always made me better. When we’d celebrate a win over a beer he’d always talk about his beloved family. We’re so sad we’ll be out of town for his services. It was an honor to know you John. Rest in Peace.
Sending condolences to family and friends. “Johny Mac” was a pleasure to work with and a great friend among many at Phoenix Contact. He will be deeply missed.
A true gentleman and good friend to all. I will miss golf, paddle and most of all the great conversations. Joining Midvale has enabled me to meet and know so many wonderful people and John was one of the best. Miss you, love you, rest in peace. God Bless you John.
John was one of the good guys. My prayers are with his family & friends.
Carla, we were devastated to hear this news. John was such a sweet man. Loved getting to know him starting when our oldest kids were elementary school friends and then all of our hockey years together. Your entire family is in our thoughts and prayers. Love to all of you.
John was a true ray of sunshine. He was always kind and enthusiastic, bringing positivity and laughter to each professional training interaction we had.
It was a true honor knowing John.
He will be deeply missed.
My prayers are with his family and friends.
May he rest in peace.
So so sorry for the families loss. Lost a good man.
I used to work with John during my 8 years at Phoenix Contact. As a young guy new to the career field, John was always happy to give advice and was a great role model. He’ll be missed, sending love to your family.
I’m in deep shock over John’s passing. I knew him and Carla through their daughter. I’ve worked with many parents, and their passion for family was wonderful to see. I know John was a good man and his light will be missed. Carla, I’m so sorry. Please keep me posted on the trust fund. My deepest sympathies.
I met Doogs early on my freshman year at Lafayette at an apartment everyone referred to as 311. Even though he was a senior, he couldn’t have made me feel more at home. John had a way of making everyone feel like the most important person in the room. When I think back on it, he was definitely one of the reasons why I joined SAE. I haven’t seen or talked to him in years, but I wish I had. He was such a great person and I know the people that have had the fortune of being around him regularly must be hurting. Sending lots of hugs from NYC.
John was a pleasure to meet and be around. I was blessed to join a small group at Browncroft with him and bunch of other strangers who quickly became friends. John always had great insight to our discussions. He had a quiet strength that was inspiring. And how he loved his family! He’d bring Anna to our meetings and invite her in to conversations. I’m a better person for having known him. Carla and family, you are in our group’s thoughts and prayers. He will be sorely missed.
John was a wonderful man, and mentor! He had a profound effect on how I wanted to conduct myself in my career. A man of integrity, professionalism and still had fun. Loved his wife and family.
My condolences to his family
John was a sincere, joyful, and deeply compassionate person. We were grateful for the opportunity to get to know him over the years at Midvale. He will be truly missed. May God bless and comfort your family during this difficult time
Thoughts and prayers with family and friends. John was a great colleague I’ve known for many years. He always had a positive attitude and was great company! He will be missed!
Carla and family, I’ve seen your joy filled family on Facebook and it’s devastating to hear the news. Deepest condolences on the enormous loss. Prayers for you all.
Carla & kids – I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Much love to you from Me & Mo
Words can’t express our sadness for all of you. We are blessed to have known John and hold many fond memories of him and our kids’ friendships throughout their school years. Prayers for your peace and comfort at this difficult time. Love to all of you.
My condolences to John’s family. I met John at Lafayette and through social circles/SAE! He and his pledgemates were a great group; always welcoming. I will keep him in my prayers.
Carla, we are incredibly blessed to have been neighbors and friends for many years. Our hearts are so heavy with the loss of an incredible man who was everyone’s friend. He was a very special person- loved by so many. He will be dearly missed. With love and condolences.
John left an incredible legacy and will be truly missed by all. He excelled in everything he did and lived life to its fullest. He touched everyone he encountered and was loved by all.
Our hearts hurt for the MacDougall family. John was a pillar of our neighborhood. We remember him fondly, always supporting Anna. Surrounding the family with love and prayers.
Just knowing John made me a better man. He brought caring, kindness, warmth and an infectious smile to the world. We didn’t see each other for many years, but I would think of him often and remember how much gave to me and so many others. My deepest condolences to his beautiful family.
Johnny Doogs
So I was one of John’s teammates and admirers. He was my swimming teammate and practice pacer. When I was 11 I started swimming and all these other swimmers were so good. They knew all the strokes and I wanted to be as good as they were. I worked really hard and finally was able to be in the same practice group as John and his piers. He was a butterflyer, a stroke that took me a long time to grasp. We eventually ended up in the same relay as we were only one year apart. Not sure what age I finally got to swim with him but it was great when we did. When we got to high school it was heaven. He could swim butterfly like most people could swim freestyle. He could do most of the practice in butterfly and keep up with everyone. That encouraged me to do the same. I was a backstroker, not as hard to do lap after lap. The thing that made me most sad for John was that he worked harder than anyone I ever was with. When it came down to end of season and tapers he seemed to always miss. He should have been faster based on the work he put in. But a testament to him. I know he was mad but he never gave up and always continued. He was a team guy. I can honestly say I have never met a nicer guy. The most whole guy I have ever been around. He will surely be missed. His memory surely lives on and that is what hurts the most. I love you John. Wishing nothing but the best for the family he has left behind.
Sending comfort, peace, and love to Carla, Anna, and the entire MacDougall family. You are all in our hearts and prayers, especially John and the incredible life he built. Sending all our love to you. Xo
So sorry to hear of John’s passing. I had the privilege of meeting John at Thomas Creek Zamboni hockey about 15 years ago. John was the guy that you always wanted to be around and be like. Always as “class act”: witty, fun, respectful, humorous, and always “adding positive vibes” to the process. Carla, my deepest condolences to you and your family.
My thoughts and prayers are with John’s family. John was a pleasure to work with, and I always appreciated his calmness and the way he carried himself. He made every interaction better. We will truly miss him.
I was just shocked by this news. John was always so fun to be around and always had a kind word to say. My absolute deepest condolences to Carla and the Family. A true loss to the people that knew him.
The world has lost a true gentleman and scholar, Johnny Mac, Godspeed!
Knowing and working with you made my life better, you are missed pal.
My thoughts and prayers to your loving family.
Until we meet again…
Truly devastating news. John was a bright light in this world and brought so much joy to others. He will be truly missed.
Thank you for your smile everyday John!
John was a great colleague and a great person. Some people have a special, unique quality that is difficult to adequately express in words and John was one of those people. My deepest sympathies to his family and will continue to keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.
Much love and condolences to the family. John was always a pleasure to be around and a consummate professional – he will be greatly missed.
John i first met you when you first moved to Rochester and you walked into my store. Gentleman is the Perfect adjective to Describe you. We had a great Business Relationship which led to friendship and I got to find out more about you and your girlfriend at the time. The Future for you and your wife was Bright and Beautiful. I hope that Your journey home will be as bright. May Your Memory be a Blessing to all who Knew and Loved 🙏
John i first met you when you first moved to Rochester and you walked into my store. Gentleman is the Perfect adjective to Describe you. We had a great Business Relationship which led to friendship and I got to find out more about you and your girlfriend at the time. The Future for you and your wife was Bright and Beautiful. I hope that Your journey home will be as bright. May Your Memory be a Blessing to all who Knew and Loved you. 🙏
John brightened every room he walked into and was a friend to everyone he met. His many friends at Phoenix Contact will cherish all the great memories made over the years. Sending love and condolences to his family and loved ones <3
Had the pleasure to work with John for 10 years. We all loved “Johnny Mac” here at Phoenix. John was a mentor to many, a friend to all. Shocked and devastated to hear this news. Love and prayers to John’s family.
I’m so sorry to hear about this. John was a good man and I held him in high regard. Enjoyed a beer or two with him whenever we were in the same place as well. Heart break.
Ed and I are deeply saddened by this news. We always enjoyed your family and looked forward to seeing you all at our front door trick or treating. Our prayers to each of you.
John’s infectious smile brought joy to every room he entered. He was a great man and mentor and I’m devastated for the loss, but his legacy will continue through all the lives he touched.
I knew John for only 6yrs working as a distributor for Phoenix Contact. John always showed interest in meeting his us, from newbies to 30yr vets. I was lucky enough to have a few dinners with him and enjoyed his passion for not only his products but life itself. John, Thank you for your our time!
Carla and family, I’m so so sorry for the loss of your husband. I can’t imagine what you are all going through. It makes me so sick when we get called home so young. Just know you all have lots of thoughts and prayers coming to you. I know it’s been forever since I’ve seen you but I’m reaching out to tell you I’m here and whatever you may need please get in touch through messenger. XO
Lisa (Carlow) Campbell.
The world lost a truly spectacular human being deeply saddened by this news.
Thoughts and prayers to John’s family as they work through this loss.
I could not believe this news when I saw it on LinkedIn. I knew John from my time at Phoenix Contact and I was privileged to know him
It was a pleasure and an honor to work with John during my time with Phoenix. He was a great positive individual that always made time to help and mentor people. The world lost one of the best. I am truly sorry and will always remember him with fond memories.
John will be greatly missed. An infectious smile, sincere hello, and the nicest person one could meet. Prayers for the family. Just know how much John was loved by all.
John was my only nephew. We would see each other at various occasions over the years. We lived 2000 miles apart, so these were rare meetings. His friendly demeaner & smile was always present. He always greeted me as uncle Jim. I will miss his presence.
I met John several years ago during Zamboni League hockey at what was then Thomas Creek. He always displayed a great sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship. I my opinion, John clearly valued his wife and kids above all else. I feel fortunate to have known him and he will be missed greatly. Sending prayers to his immediate and extended family at this difficult time.
So sorry and shocked to hear this, I worked with John for many years at two different companies and at each place, every event, any meetup, he made it better. He was one of those people that others loved being around. My condolences to all his family and friends.
John was a special person who left a positive impression on all of us. I did business with him for years as our Sales Engineer at Phoenix Contact, and he was a great partner to me and my team. He was consistently helpful, kind and someone I truly respected and considered a friend.
To Carla and family, I am so sorry for your loss and I’m praying for you all at this incredibly difficult time.
I worked with John for 14 years at Phoenix. His presence immediately made any room lighter and brighter. John was always wonderful to work with and be around. My heart is broken for his family, who he often spoke about with the biggest smile. He will be greatly missed.
Fondly remembered, forever missed. My deepest condolences and prayers to Carla and the MacDougall Family.
Worked with John during my 5 years at Phoenix Contact. My first experience with him was at a distributor conference in Orlando on Halloween and his costume was so elaborate I didn’t recognize him for a good 15 minutes. After that we talked regularly and he visited my area a few times per year. We never failed to get together, it was always great seeing him, I learned a lot from him. Thoughts and prayers to the MacDougall famliy.
It didn’t matter who you were, John always made you feel welcome. His positive attitude and kind demeanor would rub off on you. It was truly a pleasure to have the opportunity to work with him for 16 years. I can still hear him calling (yelling) to me “Steve O!”
My condolences to his loving family.
My deepest condolences to your entire family during this extremely difficult time. My heart breaks for you all. I’ll be keeping you in my prayers 💗. RIP John 😭
His smile was also shining over the ocean to Germany.
I remember like yesterday our first meeting and the fun we had. Laughing all the years singing this one song we saw each other.
I will miss it!
My sincere and deep condolences to Carla and the entire family, and the community of people who loved John. A wonderful colleague yet an even better person whose light had a positive influence on so many people. Peace and Love to all who had the great fortune to know John.
My deepest condolences on your loss. Shortly after meeting John in business, I ran into him at several triathlons he did with Anna. I was so impressed. He always had a big smile and positive attitude when I’ve been around him.
Carla and family; My deepest sympathies, condolences and love to all of you with the loss of John. The joy he reflected to others continues with you. So sorry for your loss.
My nickname for John was “Johnny Mac”. It was an affectionate name embodying the brilliant spirit and great co-worker that he was. He will be greatly missed. May his memory be for a blessing.
My heart felt condolences to the Johnny Mac family. He was such a great colleague that was always so positive and great to be around. He will be missed by all that got an opportunity to know him.
Rest in peace my friend. You brought an energy and positivity that was unmatched. I’m heartbroken by your passing and pray that God will look over your family in your absence.
I am shocked and deeply saddened. I had the privilege of working closely with John in New Jersey early in his career, and he made every day more enjoyable. I remember our conversations about the pros and cons of moving to Rochester—what ultimately became one of the best decisions he made, leading him to his wife and the beautiful family they built together. I think about him often, and I will miss him greatly.
I’d like to express my heartfelt sympathy for your loss. My wife and I attended a concert in McMinnville TN this evening. Mr. Bill Griese put on a great show, and honored the memory of his lost friend. It was clear that John was an important person to him. I am sure an empty spot will always be in your hearts, but hold on to the great memories. Though we may never meet, please know that the MacDougall family is being prayed for in Tennessee.
I was devistated to hear this news yesterday!
John was a man that I like and respected in not time. Life is both farile and short.
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
I visited this page today to get the updated news about Anna’s trust. What a wonderful and long list of tributes from so many. I sincerely hope they bring comfort during these sad days.
If there were more people like John, the world would truly be a better place. My favorite memory of him was also when I first met him. It was our inaugural trip to Germany in 2002 when we joined Phoenix Contact. I knew right away that he was a special person. He was energetic but easy going with a sunny disposition that endeared him to all that met him. I’m saddened by his passing knowing there is a hole in this world that can never be filled.