John DeGarmo

DeGarmo, John
John Jay deGarmo, 88, a career advertising man and avid golfer died February 6, 2013 in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. Mr. deGarmo took over deGarmo, Inc., his father's advertising agency, in the 1950's and grew it into a powerhouse boutique in New York City. John demonstrated his leadership abilities at an early age by starting a dog walking service. It was such a success; he was featured on the popular 1940's radio program "Major Bowles" that highlighted inspiring local youngsters. An avid golfer from the age of 12, John won many local tournaments, including several club championships, and had a single digit handicap into his 70's. John was a 50-year member of Wee Burn Country Club in Darien, CT, and a member of Sawgrass Country Club in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. He took many golfing trips to Scotland and Ireland and was particularly pleased when his two sons could join him. John was a New York Giants season ticket holder and attended games as far back as the 1950's when the Giants home field was at the Polo Grounds. He retired at age 58 after selling deGarmo Inc. to D'Arcy MacManus & Masius. Retirement allowed him to achieve his lifelong goal to play golf as much as he desired. John also spent part of his retirement writing and photographing for golf-inspired books including "The Spirit of Golf" by Ray Ellis and Ben Wright, "The Road to Ballybunion" by John deGarmo and Ray Ellis, and "Hey Kids, Start Golf Right!" by John deGarmo and Sam Wiley. He supported the American Junior Golf Association and was awarded the outstanding volunteer of the year. Born in Atlantic City, New Jersey, John spent the majority of his life around the New York area, including 50 years in Darien, CT. His first wife, Irene Murphy deGarmo, predeceased him. They were married 58 years. During their six decades together, John and Irene enjoyed taking many trips abroad, entertaining friends, and spending time with their family. He is survived by his second wife, June Day deGarmo of Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, four children, Joan deGarmo Mashburn of Haymarket, VA, Poppy deGarmo of Santa Cruz, CA, Matt deGarmo of Norwalk, CT, and John deGarmo, Jr. of Albequerque, NM, and one sister, Mary Louise deGarmo Kibling of Concord, NH. John is also survived by six grandchildren and four great grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to The First Tee or American Junior Golf Association.