It is with profound sadness that we announce that Commander (retired) John William McDermott crossed the bar, at the age of 89, on 12 Jan 25. Predeceased by his beloved wife, Marguerite Louise (née Boyd), his parents John and Sarah and his brother Daniel. John leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication as a brother to Craig (Suzanne), brother-in-law to Andrée and father to Tim (Valerie), Sean (Brigitte) and Andrew (Karin). John was a wonderful “Grampy” to Erin (Matthew), Kasey, Charles, Andrea, Collin and Thomas; great-grandfather to Kellan and beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews.
John’s distinguished career in the Royal Canadian Navy began with his graduation as a Naval Aviator from HMCS Venture, class of 56. He was awarded the Queen's Commendation for Brave Conduct and was Mentioned in Dispatches for his courage and flying skills for delivering equipment and evacuating critically injured sailors from HMCS Nipigon, after an onboard explosion. He later served as the Commanding Officer of HS 423 Squadron. He then attended the USAF Air War College in Montgomery Alabama, concurrently completing a Master of Business Administration at Auburn University. After working in the NDHQ, he then worked as Canadian Defense Liaison Staff in Washington DC until retiring from the Canadian Armed Forces.
John volunteered with several community organizations and associations throughout his life including with the Shearwater Minor Hockey Association, Canoeing Canada (Atlantic Region), the Canadian Aviation and Space Museum and with the Anderson Park Homeowner’s Association.
Those who knew him will remember his ability to spin a tall dit (story), sharp wit, sense of humour and generosity with family and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Beechwood, Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Services (280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa), on Friday, January 31, 2025, from 12 noon until 3:00 p.m. Words of Remembrance to be shared at 1:30 p.m. Interment with military honours at 3:00 p.m. in the National Military Cemetery located at Beechwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Elderdog Canada in John’s memory. For those unable to attend in person, we invite you to attend the Words of Remembrance via livestream.
Fair winds and following seas sailor, you are signal delta.
Livre de visiteurs
Janice Boudreau
Denise Smith
So happy to have known you as part of the Eckel family. RIP John. Our hearts & thoughts are with you all.
Carol Boyd
I have such great memories of Uncle John and Aunt Rite . Uncle John was such a wonderful , kind man. He will be sorely missed .
Moira Bourke
I’ve known John for sixty five years. I was a classmate of his wife,Rite. We shared many vacations together and many wonderful parties with the two of them. A lot of fun memories with great couple.
Richard Duffield
John (Venture Class of 56) and I (Venture Class of 62) were shipmates on HMCS Cap de la Madeleine in the early sixties. During that time, he gave me my first helicopter ride on the "new" chopper as part of my Helicopter Control Officer Course. Year later, both retired, we met up again as attendees at the regular Hooley gatherings of Ottawa Ventures. I was also pleased to meet up with John at the Venture Legacy Project dedication ceremony in Halifax this past September. My sincere condolences are extended to his family. Here’s wishing you fair winds and following seas dear friend. Richard Duffield
Steve
I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your father. Please know my thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. I hope you can take comfort in the legacy he leaves behind. If you need anything at all, I'm here for you.
Elaine Foulkes
I met Mr. McDermott only once when he agreed to my son's request to explain to me how his community worked. Such a gentleman and so helpful. I will remember his generosity and grace for a long, long time. My condolences to all who now grieve his passing. May memories comfort and may Mr. McDermott rest in peace and rise in glory.
Bernie and Barbara Hart Nova Scotia
John was a wonderful neighbour and friend. He always kept- in- touch with his Nova Scotian friends either by mail or in person. May his memory be a blessing. Love to Tim, Sean, and Andrew.
Dan Beaudry
I had know John for 17 years in Anderson Park, several of them as colleagues on the Board of Directors of our community. I can say with certainty that John McDermott was a most remarkable and honourable man. Rest easy, sailor.
Claude Choquette
I had the pleasure of knowing John in Anderson Park and working with him on the Board. John was a diligent, detailed and sincere person. Both he and Marguerite were extremely kind and understanding friends. My sincere condolences to the family.
So very sorry for your loss