John Richard McDermott

John Richard McDermott, 85, of Charlotte, died Tuesday, September 17, 2013. Richard, as he was more commonly called, was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on May 18, 1928, the Irish-American son of Walter and Germaine (nee Mitchell) McDermott. He grew up in Milwaukee and on April 15, 1949, he married Beverly Pelland at St Boniface Catholic Church. Richard was a talented sales professional, and his career took him to Kentucky and Indiana before he and his family settled in Charlotte in 1970. A testament to his energy and work ethic, Richard worked a route of Charlotte Observer newspaper boxes for 23 years before retiring from it just a couple of years ago at the age of 83. Richard enjoyed many things in life. While living in Kentucky, he added an interest in horse racing to his many other interests. While outdoors, he enjoyed gardening, flowers, and was known for the beautiful tomatoes that he could coax from the soil. When he was indoors, he enjoyed reading, art, and music. Most of all, Richard loved his family and friends. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him for the hard working, passionate, and outspoken family man, husband, father, and friend that he was. Richard is survived by: The love of his life, Beverly, his wife of 64 years, Five children: Michael John McDermott of King, NC Shaun Thomas (and wife, Kathy) McDermott of Charlotte, NC Kathleen Mary (and husband, Richard) Hess of Walkertown, NC Brian Patrick (and wife, Julie) McDermott of Concord, NC Mary Margaret McDermott of Charlotte, NC Six grandchildren: Blair McDermott Erin McDermott Jonathan (and wife Bridget) McDermott Kelly McDermott Lauren McDermott Abby McDermott One brother, Thomas (and wife, Joan) McDermott Richard is further survived by numerous nieces, nephews, a great grandchild due in November; two favored four-legged “children”, ‘Stanley’ the cat and ‘Happy’ the dog which he gave to his daughter, Mary; and many friends. The family has given the privilege of serving them and Richard to the family of Lowe-Neddo Funeral Home, 4715 Margaret Wallace Road, Matthews, NC, 28105. In memory and celebration of the blessing that was their husband, father, and grandfather, Richard’s family invites you to join them on Saturday, September 21, for a memorial service at 1:00 pm in the funeral home chapel. All are invited to participate and share as Mr. Michael Neddo leads the Celebration of Life Service. Prior to the service, the family will receive guests at the funeral home for one hour. All will conclude at the funeral home. Further details and the opportunity to share in Richard’s life may be found in his online memorial at www.LoweNeddoFuneralHome.com or by calling 704-545-3553. In honor of the loving care shown Richard during these last days, the family would gratefully appreciate memorials to Hospice and Palliative Care, Harris Hospice, PO Box 33549, Charlotte, NC 28233, or online at http://www.presbyterian.org/Home/Services/HospicePalliativeCare/Hospice/HarrisHospiceUnit.aspx Finally, the family would like to extend a sincere thank you to all who have helped or will be helping in any way during this difficult time. Your thoughts, prayers, and acts of kindness are deeply appreciated.

John Richard McDermott

May 18, 1928 - September 17, 2013