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George A. McMahon

George McMahon Obituary

George A. McMahon, Ret. Chief C.P.D. Navy Veteran WWII. Beloved husband of Regina "Jeanne", nee O'Donnell; loving father of Denise (Gerald)

Fitzgerald, Michael, Brian, CPD, Mary Kay (Don) Robertson and the late Neil Patrick; devoted grandfather of Kathleen (Josh) Ready, Celine, Callie, Kate, Shannon, Patrick and Danny; dearest great-grandfather of Sean, Joseph, and Ryan; cherished son of the late James and Jeanie, nee Harris; dear brother of the late James, John, William, Robert and Daniel; fond uncle to many nieces and nephews. Heartfelt gratitude goes to the 5th Floor Angels at Regency Healthcare for their tireless devotion to George. Visitation Friday, from 3 until 9 p.m. with St. Jude Service at 7 p.m. at Olson Burke/Sullivan Funeral & Cremation Center, 6471 N. Northwest Hwy., (1 blk N. of Devon) Chicago. Funeral 9 a.m. Saturday, to Immaculate Conception Church, Mass 10 a.m. Interment Mt. Carmel Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Sisters of Providence Retirement Fund, c/o Sister Ann Casper, St. Mary of the Woods, IN 47876. Info 773-774-3333.

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Published by Chicago Tribune on Feb. 12, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for George McMahon

Sponsored by McMahon children, .

32 Entries

Jamie

October 8, 2017

Brian McMahon

February 10, 2010

Boy, it's been a fast year Dad since your big move up to Heaven. Mom is still doin pretty good and she has your picture right next to your little grandfather clock. She says she talks to you all the time, especially at 5pm! lol. We miss you Georgie and hope you're sometimes proud of us as we try everyday to live up to your fine example of living life. We'll never be able to fill your shoes Chief, never! Talk to you soon...

Diana Migala-McCabe

March 10, 2009

Dear McMahon Family, I just learned yesterday that George has left you. I am so sorry to hear of your loss...and I feel terrible that I did not know sooner, and was not able to be there for you....as you ALL were for me when my parents passed. Please accept my most sincere sympathies....
I am still having a hard time going to the house...which is why I didn't know before now Now there will be another reason to be tearful as I look across the street..
Reading all the beautiful words that you have written makes me smile...but with a tear. YOU ALL KNOW how blessed and special you are to have had the love and care of such a marvelous man...
Over the years, it has been painful to watch as George was stolen from you...little by little..day by day. I can't imagine how heavy that cross was to bear..but you all carried it well and with grace...that was already a tribute to his love...and his goodness, all the while. You honored him well, for a long time, already. As a nurse...PLEASE let me tell you how truely rare and precious it is for a family to show the love and devotion that you have. Only a fine, caring, honorable man could have produced a family whose love was such a joy to see....and your Mom's devotion and love as well.
I remember the first day that I saw your Father walking and he did not remember my name...I went home and cried, for you all....what a brilliant, devoted, and thoughtful person was your Father, to be stolen from you so cruely. Life is not fair...but the good years...the wonderful, GREAT years that you all had...although too brief..were MUCH more than most ever HOPE to live or love in this world. The values that you have been given and taught , by both of your parents..are so precious and in such short supply in this world. You have been blessed to have had him.
Please know that you are all in my prayers. With my Love and sadness.
xo

Laurie Long

March 2, 2009

I never had the opportunity to meet George, but I worked for several years with his daughter Mary Kay. Talk about someone who can make a person laugh ... there you have it! Clearly she learned from a master ... while still maintaining high integrity and morals in everything she did.

I am sorry for your family loss but touched by simply knowing one George's family members as a good friend.

((hugs)) to all ..

Lynne Kopp (Huber)

March 2, 2009

To the McMahon Family,

I am writing on behalf of my mother, Mary Ellen Huber (nee Hennessy). My mom worked with Jeanne at Sears and was in her wedding party. My mom now resides in Rosewood Care Center in Inverness and just happened to see a mass notice in the church bulletin at Holy Family Church requested by Denise. She asked if I would please write a note to all of you, but especially to Jeanne, expressing her sincere heartfelt sympathy in the loss of George. My mom has talked so often during her life about Jeanne and George and the good times they had. My mom lost her husband (Richard) almost 11 years ago and she along with us 4 children know the profound sadness you are feeling. We will certainly keep Jeanne and the rest of your family is our prayers. May George's soul rest in eternal peace.

Brian McMahon

February 22, 2009

Hi Dad, Feb 2009
It’s Brian sending you a note about the last couple days. I hope you saw us all at your wake last Friday night and also at the funeral on Sat morn. Weren’t we all a site to see, as we scrambled to get everything in order? I bet you thought we should have been more prepared for these few days, but for some reason we weren’t quite ready to say goodbye to you Chief. ( I know we never really called you by your titles, but I thought I’d take a chance now.)
Dad, your illness over the past 10 years or so was sure tough on you. Isn’t it a strange disease that slowly takes your mind away. Dad, why would our God allow a great guy like you to deteriorate like that? You were always so sharp minded and attentive as you and Mom raised the 4 of us to be pretty good children. But I know you will say to relax, there are people with bigger problems and that you did pretty darn good for 70 yrs and that Ma was icing on the cake when you met her at the old Sears catalog house after WWII. Did she really get your attention by offering you a Snickers Bar? And you fell head over heal I bet. You both look like movie stars in your wedding pictures.
For the wake we had all kinds of posters made up of you Dad at Jeannie Sullivan’s funeral home. I hope we didn’t over do it in your view. All your career pictures, badges and newspaper articles were displayed. Mom wanted to smack a few of us as we kept adding pictures and collages. I just hope you thought we did OK in greeting all your old friends, past police co-workers and especially the big family of McMahon’s and O’Donnell’s. It is all such a blur now Dad, I really can’t remember some of the night. It reminded some of us of the really big parties we would have in the basement on Osceola, with Hudda on the orange bar stool. Or the good times at Rita and Bob’s, or how about farther back and the drive out to Grays Lake or out to Aurora to see Helen.
I know how Mom and you liked to go to Florida at this time of year and sure enough many of your friends are indeed down in the warm weather state now. Mom is getting cards everyday from old cronies in the sunshine state and I think Aunt Babe is out in California. So I hope we got the word out far and wide to give you the biggest good bye Mom could handle.
I bet you saw my older brother Mike all dressed up looking sharp as his friends came and went all night long at your service. Mike thinks about you all the time Dad and his friends know so many of your stories and police promotion steps over the years. I know Mike remembers well your kindness and forgiveness…. in fact; his friends still talk about the time you caught them siphoning gasoline from your take home squad. They still shake in their boots talking about it while they share a good laugh. Hey Dad, I do remember my friends too getting caught in the basement with a vodka bottle on a New Years Eve. You yelled out “Brian you are confined to quarters and I should kick the rest of you guys" and the time my friend Jimmy Archam drove away from the house backwards as you trotted down the driveway after him.
Yeah, you’re right Dad. The Grand Kids seemed to take it the hardest and that was the saddest part. We (the older ones) know you are in a much better place, but the young kids sure shed a lot of tears over the past week. My Katie is now 29 yrs and happily married to Josh Ready with 3 little boys. You may remember little Sean, though he is now 10 and Joey is 4, while the new baby is 2 months, Ryan James Ready. Watch them close Dad, as they are so funny while they grow up.
And I know you were so proud of Kazy-MaryKay as she always did her best, worked hard and finished college, and then married a wonderful guy- Don Robertson. Their 4 kids are funny, funny, funny. Cali is already in college, driving a car and has been a big help to Kazy during this tough time. Kate is always a hoot and funny and wants to learn how to water ski. Pat is really shook up on your trip to heaven Dad and will have to gear up for little league which is coming up. Hey Dad, remember little Danny? He has your youngest brother’s namesake and you always would ask “what’s this little fella’s name”. They all talk and laugh of the time Mom and You went out to the kids school for Grandparents day and you guys couldn’t find your coats for awhile. You’d say what is funny about that and the kids just keep chuckling. They all say the same thing Dad, that they just want to chuckle and laugh with you again, a few more times.
Of course we know Denise was your favorite… and that’s OK. Her husband Gerry Fitzgerald is such a fine gentleman, isn’t he Dad? I know you see him helping us and Mom whenever we need his wisdom and guidance. Celine and Shannon knew you so well Dad. They are both pillars of strength like their Mom- Neise. Dad, remember the time you came to Neise’s aid when a tough landlord lady was giving her a hard time about painting her apartment near DePaul? Gosh, it seems like we were moving Neise every year or so with the labor help of Mike and his friend Larry Freud. But the lady was really hot at Denise and my friend Kevin Dietz was doing the painting. You rushed over there in minutes in a squad and quickly restored peace; and the landlord wasn’t so tough after all. No one was gonna mess with your daughter as you always stood up for your children.
Dad, I hope you don’t mind the way we bragged about your Chicago Police career. We may have over done it a bit, but for once we really wanted to shout about your many accomplishments. And it may help some of us too, if you catch my drift. Since you’ve been retired over 20 yrs, we may need some pull if a younger- Chicago’s finest pulls us over. Did you see the nice story on your career and humble beginnings we got into the Tribune on Friday? Your nephew Commander Billy O’Donnell and Tribune reporter Bob Weidrich helped us out big time in getting the story together. They summarized your many command posts, top promotion test results and your dedication to the citizens of Chicago since the late 1950’s. Many of our friends were amazed that you were at the top of the Detective Division as Chief.
But I do remember Dad that you said your most enjoyable days on the force were in the old Austin District with your old partners Carmie Pappalardo and Marty Masterson. You mentioned many times your time with Carmie on the paddy wagon was real police work. Carmie and Marty made it to heaven far too young. Carmie’s son Johnny Pappalardo attended all your services Dad and brought his Mother, Bertha… who along with Ann Masterson gave Mom plenty of hugs. Johnny always said he was honored to know you and told countless people “that George McMahon was as good a boss and fine gentleman and that anyone who ever worked for you would surely confirm.” Johnny said you never let the titles or promotions go to your head like a few other guys. So say “hi” to your old friends in heaven Dad.
I think Tommy Minasola was in Florida but his wife and daughters made the service. Tommy was so loyal to you Dad, and I think he planned your retirement dinner with Jimmy O’Grady years back. All kinds of old friends and partners made it out on Friday night. Dad, I may have missed some of the guests so we hope you were keeping count and taking names. Past Superintendents Rodriguez and Brzeczek made it over as well as Ray Clark. And did you see the old LaFollette Park guys too? The Grapenthiens, McHughs, Dunnes and Costello’s came to say hello. I bet you miss the old neighborhood Dad, just as we do.
Of course I know you saw Ma’s sisters Rita and Kay at the services with all their children filling up the room nicely. We missed Billy (hudda) very much, but Peggy and Jimmy said his legs were just a little too tired to make the trip up from Florida. Mom says Billy calls all the time and is really shook up at the news of your illness finally getting the best of you. But I bet you felt his presence Dad, as all the cousins remembered nothing but good times about you and your kind gentle guidance. Bobby D’Onofrio and Judy said a few kind words about you at the luncheon, I know you enjoyed that as they were a bit choked up but carried on through. Dad, I also said a few words for you, but it was much too short as I began to talk of Mom too and then I had to bail out. I’ll never forgive myself, never, for not stepping up and briefly summarizing the love we felt for you our entire lives. Gosh, we were and are so proud of you Dad! Seeing you on TV a lot when we were kids was such a kick. The neighborhood kids would come running out and yell “your Dad is on TV!!” on some big crime case.
It is so hard to type this note Dad, I still tear up a week after your big good bye, especially when I am alone. We’ve been busy carting Mom around and getting all the pension and stuff in order. Isn’t she a trooper and so strong? She did her best for you at home but eventually had to give in when we made the decision to have you comfortably stay at the Regency Home. You never caused any of us any problems, but Ma was just too frail herself to care for you at home any longer. I know you saw Ma on our frequent visits to your 5th floor room as we helped the staff several days a week to be sure you had a good meal. Mom was sure we had all the supplies to keep you comfortable in your room and Mike, Neise and Kazy all did their best to coax a smile out of you.
And Kazy was a real riot in the lunch room as many of the old-timers flocked around her and were engulfed by her laughter and jokes. So I know you saw us having fun and interacting with the patients and staff as you’d like. Denise was always bringing the staff treats and gifts; they must have thought she owned her own bakery.

We don’t want to lose Mom too soon Dad. Us kids, the grandkids and great grandkids still need her very much. I know that is selfish but the young kids seem to be hurting so much that you gotta help us out with her
Dad, Ma and you were so inseparable I don’t know how she is going to carry on. She appears strong, but you may know better than us how badly she is mourning. The past 10 yrs seemed to destroy her at times as she saw you, her soul mate slipping away to an unknown world. Never did Mom complain as she made sure we all held our heads up, carried on and treated you and the other poor souls on the 5th floor with dignity and respect. We’ll do our best with Mom as I know you’d want us to. I know how you would rush home after your morning golf game to be with the woman of your dreams. Your old friend Bill Keating, I think he was Chief of Patrol, and you were so similar. Your early game of golf wasn’t followed by going out to breakfast or coffee with the boys, but with a simple ride back home, coffee with your wife and the life you loved. I know we, your children were part of that life Dad, and I love you more each day for that. Help us all grow to be a small reflection of your life, which I know is continuing in a far better place as you finally rest and don’t have to suffer anymore. I love you from the bottom of my heart….Your Son, .Bry

Nancy Martin

February 17, 2009

What a special gift to the world George McMahon has been. His love story with Jeanne was the sweetest thing ever. It is reflected in the kind souls of each of their children. It is such a pleaseure to think of him, alive and loving and laughing that amazing laugh of his in heaven. And although he would have wondered what all the fuss was about in the last week, he would have been so proud of his Jeanne, Denise, Michael, Brian and Kazy. Your love for him and for each other was so obvious in the special farewell you each gave him with the help of Gerry, Don, and all the amazing children. Take care of each other in the days ahead, as he would take care of you, and thanks so much for letting me say 'see you later' with you. Much love, Nance

Patrick Robertson

February 16, 2009

George was the best grandpa ever... Even though I never knew him as the real man he was, I will always remember all the good times because of the stories I hear. There was the time when he cut my hair and my ear (a little bit and not on purpose). George, there are many people down here that love you and we will all see you once again in the better place called heaven.

Celine Fitzgerald

February 16, 2009

A goal many people try to achieve is becoming wealthy. George McMahon was one of the richest men I knew. Yes he worked hard and was able to support his family but he was wealthy in a way most can not dream of and his wake/funeral proved it. He was rich with many friends who respected him beyond belief. The kind words were an honor to hear at the wake. Grandpa George is and will forever be in our hearts and minds and continue to be a positive role model.

Denise Fitzgerald

February 15, 2009

The last twelve years you suffered and were confused. Mom took excellent care of you for seven years and then we stepped in and decided to find the best possible home that we could find. And we did, Regency Health Care where you lived for the past five years. You couldn't have found better or more dedicated care givers. We brought Mom nearly every day and followed the routine. You didn't know us but had a smile on your face as we sat in your room. Alzheimer's Disease robbed you of so much; quality years with Mom, not knowing the younger grandchildren and great grandchildren and just living your life to the fullest. But, it never robbed you of your dignity. You were always a gentleman and I can't tell you how many people have said that about you. I remember growing up how you helped so many people. You helped family, younger police officers as they were studying for promotions and you passed on study guides or audio tapes that you made. I remember one of the Nuns calling as you were up on a ladder asking you to be a last minute sponsor for a Confirmation candidate who needed a mentor. You jumped off the ladder (well, maybe not quite) and met the challenge. The young boy was impressed and appreciated the monetary gift you gave him after the Confirmation. You taught us to drive, to treat people with respect, to remember our roots and so much more. You instilled values that I only hope I can pass on to Celine and Shannon. They watched you during the good years and admired your courage as you fought this terrible disease. You would never have asked for any fanfare but would have been moved by the tributes that you have received recently. We all remember your distinguished career with CPD and we admired your tenacity. You had friends from all walks of life and they appreciated your gentle spirit. Mom will miss you terribly as will all of us. We were all too emotional to speak at your funeral but Frank O'Hara singing was special. This surely is the long goodbye but we will see you again in a better place. All my love, Denise

Margaret Masterson

February 15, 2009

My father, Martin Masterson and George started with the CPD on the same day, same year, and became great friends. My mother was also friends with George and Jeanne. I have heard wonderful things about George and Jeanne from my mother throughout the years. I believe George is in heaven but his kindness, compassion, love and faith live on through everyone he touched. Margaret Masterson

Meg Hargett

February 14, 2009

McMahon Family: I am very sad to learn of your loss. I'm sure I had met Uncle George at some time, but I was too young to remember. My mom speaks dearly of her time spent with him and refers to Uncle George as one of her favorites. My thoughts and prayers are with you. My wish is that you find comfort knowing that he touched so many lives. Meg Hargett (Ann-Michelle's daughter)

Mary Kay Robertson

February 13, 2009

George McMahon was a great man who touched the lives of many. Each and every one of us that were fortunate enough to have known George was lucky to have had the opportunity to be a part of the life of a man that was such a perfect example of a true gentleman! He has been described by many as a fair and honest man with great integrity, and that is very true. He was once called “a handsome man with a ready smile” and we used that line quite a bit through the years – and it also was very true. He was funny, clever and one of the smartest men that I ever knew. And in addition to all that, he was a kind, warm, sincere man that loved his family. The love between Jeanne and George McMahon is not one that you see often, if ever in a lifetime. It is a love that you read about in books and fairy tales, but it was real in their every day life. And that love was evident in my every day life, as I grew up in that home with Jeanne and George, my Mom and Dad. Dad, we love you more than words can say and will miss you so very much. Thank you for being my Dad, and someday we will be reunited.

All my love,
Kazy (Mary Kay McMahon)

Danny Robertson

February 13, 2009

Most people have to refer to George as a friend, I'm lucky enough to be apart of his family. I never really got to meet George, due to suffering from a terrible disease. I have heard many, many great stories about him. Ranging from how good of a parent he was all the way to how good of a police officer he was. I wish i could have known you longer George.
You will never be forgotten.
Love Danny

Tom Kaczka

February 13, 2009

Chief McMahon was one of the finest men I have ever met..heaven is being well protected

Tom Kaczka, Ret Lieut CPD

margaret jean mcmahon sabala

February 13, 2009

My heart felt sympathy to Aunt Jean and her family. May God bless and keep her and all her family. I'll always remember growing up with all my uncles in the McMahon family. Its one of the best memories of my childhood.

Michael McMahon

February 13, 2009

Our heartfelt sympathy is with Aunt Jeanne and all the family. Uncle George was like a father in many ways to my brothers and sisters when we were growing up. Then we got to know him as the Chief, and a good leader who cared about those who worked for him. His family was most important to him, and we will fondly remember the many good times. In sympathy, Michael and Linda McMahon

Ed D'Onofrio

February 13, 2009

Guys like Uncle George are few and far between. Honest, hard working, always pleasant, devoted to his family. I learned a lot from this gentleman who always had a smile on his face. His and Aunt Jeanne's beautiful family are testament to a life well lived.

Rest easy Chief!

James Bossier

February 13, 2009

Brian I never met your father but after reading about him I wished that I had.Stay strong during this sad time.Jim Bossier

Lee DeMars

February 13, 2009

My Mother's family, the Biggams, came up to Chicago from Gillespie with the McMahons. I had the honor of knowing them as a little boy and years later I worked under George in the Detective Division. George was a true gentleman, a great boss, and a genuinely fine man.

Ann Michelle Mahony

February 13, 2009

My dear Uncle George left me with so many happy memories. I'll never forget his rendition of "Danny Boy". He had such integrity and kindness. This was so evident in the way he protected my Aunt Jeanne and his children from the many inhumane problems he faced every day while on the force, leaving the ugliness behind and just bringing love home. Rest in peace, dear man.

Peggy O'Donnell

February 13, 2009

My Uncle George was a wonderful man, he was an important part of our family with too many memories to mention. Always a smile and a warm welcome. Through the years I have been so impressed with the never ending devotion my Aunt Jean had for George which would have been impossible without the help of their children. As a family you should all be proud. I know I am so proud to have known him. The "Champ" will be missed.

Ron Palmer

February 13, 2009

God bless you, Chief. You were a good man and a great Chief of Detectives. It was a pleasure working for a man with your integrity and dedication.

Callie Robertson

February 12, 2009

To be a granddaughter of George is truly a blessing. He was a great guy and always very loving towards the family. Grandpa George has taught me a lot in life. Even though he was sick and suffered for the last years of his life, he stayed as strong as he possibly could and he never gave up. I look up to him and see him as a hero. I wouldn't ever ask God for a better grandfather, and even if I did, God wouldn't be able to give me better because you were the best. All the memories we have together will never be forgotten and neither will you. You're in a better place now and one day we will meet again. I love you George.

Love,
Callie

Meg D'Onofrio Lauterbach

February 12, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with Aunt Jeanne and family. Uncle George was always so kind and welcoming. Whether it was hosting the O'Donnells for a Sunday afternoon at their house on Crystal or inviting Bob and Rita and family (all 11 of us) to join the Lamplighters for their annual picnic. Lots of great memories to cherish for many years to come.

Robert Shanahan

February 12, 2009

I consider it a privilege to have known and worked for George. Men of his character and grace seldom pass our way which is why we mourn their departure. He was that rare blend of boss and friend fulfilling both roles with equal style. Rest easy my friend until we meet again.

Robert E. Shanahan
Lieutenant, C.P.D. (Retired)

Mary Jo D'Onofrio White

February 12, 2009

Uncle George - Always a deep, hearty laugh with a pat on the head, a big grin and handing out candy in the basement to all the cousins. He looked so handsome in his uniform! The CPD should be proud he was in their ranks! Love to all the family. Thinking of you

Shannon Fitzgerald

February 12, 2009

George McMahon is the best grandpa anyone could ever ask for. He was a great police officer and is a wonderful role model. He was always a positive man with an upbeat attitude. George always smiled at the sight of family and never turned you away when you had a problem.
I remember when I tied a piece of yellow string around George's wrist and one on my wrist. And I still wear it everyday. I see it as a friendship bracelet.
I firmly believe George is in a better place now.

always remembered, never forgotten.

Love always,
Shannon McMahon Fitzgerad

Ted O'Connor

February 12, 2009

A true gentleman and a good policeman. He cared about the people that worked for him. He "went to bat" for me more than once. God rest his soul.

Ted O'Connor
Detective Sergeant (retired)

Katie McMahon

February 12, 2009

I am at a loss of words to describe my Grandfather. . I remember him as someone who lived up to the standards that God demands from us all. His death reminds us that life is short and that only those are remembered who have lived it to the fullest and given back a lot in return. Sure he is not around us but every time we will meet someone as positive and motivated as him we will recall his name with fondness.His physical presence has been taken away from us. But I believe that his memories will suffice. I will cherish all the times I spent with George. I will never forget being a little girl and we would make sundaes and sit and watch the Golden Girls on tv.
We will carry you with us; your smile will lead the way
And remind us of the life we love every single day
Your pain has all subsided; your dreams can now come true
And we will see your face one day when the Lord leads us to you.
I love you George
Love Always,
Katie

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