Dr. Bert Lawrence McCoy

With love and gratitude, we honor the life of Dr. Bert Lawrence McCoy, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, whose faith and character touched all who knew him.

Born in Santa Monica, California, Bert was the second son of Paul and June McCoy and grew up with his brothers Paul Jr., Michael, Matthew, and Mark. He met his wife Eileen Marie Rhodes when they were neighbors at their families' Newport Beach vacation homes on Little Island. They married, made their home, raised six children, and shared 63 wonderful years together.

In his younger years, Bert graduated from UCLA with a degree in zoology, then later earned his Doctor of Optometry degree from the USC College of Optometry. After several years practicing in Los Angeles, he and Eileen settled in Mission Viejo, where he opened his own optometry practice. For 47 years, he cared for patients with skill and compassion, constantly advancing his knowledge through continuing education. His commitment to his profession and community was steadfast and the impact he made on his patients' lives was unparalleled.

Outside of work, Bert lived a life of deep faith and service. He was a member of the Rotary Club, Knights of Columbus, Lions Club, Mission Viejo High School Booster Club and a devoted parishioner and lecturer of the Catholic Church. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, coin collecting, avidly following science and scientific advancement, and traveling, but most of all, he treasured time with his family. He was a beloved "Gampa" to his nine grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Eileen Marie, in 2021; his son Sean in 2023; his daughter Bridget in 1973, his grandson Aidan in 2024. He is survived by four children and their significant others: Bert Jr. (Donna), Catherine (Mike), Cassie (Devon), and Patrick (Brooke); eight grandchildren: Briana, Ellie, Evan, Connor, Parker, Troy, Gigi, and Alina; and two brothers, Michael and Mark. He will also be remembered fondly by extended family, fellow parishioners and many dear friends.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Kilian's Catholic Church on Thursday, December 11 th at 10:30 a.m., followed by burial at Rose Hills Memorial Park, where he will be laid to rest alongside his wife Eileen. The family will host a wake at Cassie & Devon Glazer's residence on December 13th to celebrate his life.

He will be deeply missed and remembered for his integrity, generosity, intelligence, humor, and devotion to all those he loved.