Paul McDermott Obituary

Happy Jack, AZ - We sadly announce that Paul Patrick McDermott, a resident of Starlight Pines in Happy Jack, AZ, died on July 16, 2021 following an extended illness.
Paul was born August 19, 1943 in Schenectady, NY where he lived until 1993 when he moved to Arizona.
He was a member of the first graduating class from Bishop Gibbons High School where he played sports and starred in theatrical productions. Paul attended Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH where he played football before returning Schenectady where he married, raised his four children and was involved in their school and sport activities.
Paul also starred in the independent film, Seedlings, that was shown at the Cannes film festival. Throughout his life he worked in positions where he could provide care, guidance and inspiration. He especially loved driving school bus when he retired.
Paul was an intellectual, empathetic man of integrity who had a beautiful soul. He loved every element of life. Paul not only loved to read books but was judicious about giving books to children encouraging them to read. Paul loved to write. He had hundreds of stories in his brain of which many ended up on paper. He loved any type of fishing. He was an avid jazz enthusiast, movie watcher and vegetable gardener. Paul was a loving, caring man. By donating his body to science he continues to make a difference in others' lives. He will be truly missed. Paul loved and was loved.
Paul is predeceased by his parents, Thomas and Marie (Walters) McDermott, sister Rose Schuttenhelm, brother Leo McDermott, and brother-in-law David Pasquariello.
Paul is survived by his loving wife of 24 years Linda (Olthafer) McDermott. They have lived in Happy Jack, AZ for the past 14 years.
Paul is survived by his four children, Patrick, Kate (Geno) Bilka, Paul (Elizabeth), and Dennis (Amelia), his grandchildren Catrina McDermott, Elijah Clemente, and Liam and Emily McDermott. He is also survived by his brothers James (Maryann) McDermott, Thomas (Dee) McDermott, his sister Dolores Pasquariello and brother-in-law Fritz Schuttenhelm, as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews.
We are so grateful of the compassionate caring hospice staff at Compassus in Payson, AZ. A Celebration of Paul's Life will be held in Happy Jack, AZ in early October.
Donations in Paul's name can be made to Friends of the Winslow Library to support the children's reading room. https://www.winslowaz.gov/departments/library/friends_of_the_library.php.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Daily Gazette Co. from Jul. 28 to Jul. 29, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Paul McDermott

4 Entries

Nick Viscio

April 12, 2024

It's been a few years, 35 to be exact, since I've seen Paul but he always kept in touch over that time. In 1985 we filmed Seedlings in upstate NY and having answered a newspaper call for auditions, Paul was exactly what we were looking for in a tough rugged logger. During a rigorous filming schedule that lasted the entire summer, Paul was dedicated to seeing the project through. We called him the Gentle Giant and as he portrayed a tough character in the film. I respected how good an actor he was knowing how contrary this role was to his true personality.

I'm deeply saddened to learn of Paul's passing, especially at this late date. I'm glad that I had the privilege of knowing and working with him all those years ago. I am also glad that a bit of Paul will carry on in Seedlings. My deepest sympathy to Linda and family together with all who were close to Paul.

Nick Viscio

Michael Murray

January 19, 2023

My condolences to Paul's family. I knew Paul in high school and again after I came out of the Marines to a civilian life. He was very dedicated to his family and a fun loving guy. I'm glad he found happiness in Arizona and had a very fulfilling life. I'm sure he will be missed. My prayers are with you.

Michael Hans

January 17, 2022

I was a classmate of his brother Thomas, and went to BGHS for a while. I vividly remember a couple of incidents regarding Paul. I recall a "Stand-up" -silent comedy skit where he stood silently in a spotlight for a very long time, then burst into laughter, then resuming the stoic pose and exiting the stage. He was a naturally funny guy. I'm sure everyone close to him misses him.

Anonymous

January 11, 2022

I only had the pleasure of meeting Paul a hand full of times, but he always knew how to put a smile on everyone´s face. He always had an interesting story to tell and was an all around amazing man. His family will always be lucky to have him.

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