Dr. Paul Brendan McCormac

Dr. Paul Brendan McCormac obituary, Fanwood, NJ

Dr. Paul Brendan McCormac

Paul McCormac Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Memorial Funeral Home - Fanwood on Jan. 22, 2024.

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Dr. Paul Brendan McCormac, 53, passed away suddenly on January 18th, 2024 in Fanwood. Born in Dublin, Ireland to Brendan and Patricia McCormac he came over to the United States early in his career and became an American citizen in 2015.
Paul received a PhD in organic chemistry from Dublin City University. Paul held various roles over the years in many pharmaceutical companies and was most recently the Chief Technical Officer at Lexeo Therapeutics. He spoke fondly of his prior roles at Pfizer and Avecia. Paul held multiple patents and was an expert, working on the cutting edge in his field. He was brilliant in the eyes of many.
Paul will be remembered for his larger-than-life personality and the ability to be the center of any room he walked into. He had a booming presence.
Paul was a loving husband and a true partner to his wife, Courtney, who he loved and adored. He was the sunshine of his wife's world. Paul was at the height of his happiness watching his son, Joseph, play soccer and his daughter, Meghan, swim and do gymnastics. He shared a passion for geography, history and sports with Joe, two peas in a pod. He was a do-er and took on Target shopping trips with Meghan joyously. He was forever amazed by all that his children brought to the world and his life; he loved them more than anything and was a wonderful Dad. He was a rock for his family.
The sight of a 6'8", scally cap wearing Irishman and his dog, MoChara, out walking and chatting up the neighbors was a daily occurrence. Paul was never at a loss for words and loved being surrounded by people, taking every opportunity to kick off a conversation with someone new, be it a cab driver or an industry exec. Paul's soccer team was Liverpool, a lifelong passion. His football team was the Patriots, there being no comparison to the Brady, Belichick duo. Paul held loves for music, technology and reading. He loved to cook and grill for his family, a chemist in the kitchen.
Ever the optimist, Paul never fretted about life's challenges, rather he had the utmost confidence that whatever challenge lay before him, he would always be able to come up with a great idea. His creativity in this regard was a truly unique gift.
He is survived by his loving wife, Courtney, as well as their two beautiful children, Joseph, 9, and Meghan, 6. His mother, Patricia; brother Simon, wife Rachel and their son, James; his brother Joseph; mother and father-in-law, Peter and Kathleen Sullivan; sisters-in-law, Christine Trajkovic, her husband, Sasa; Meghan Morris, her husband, John; brothers-in-law Brendan Sullivan, Kevin Sullivan, his wife Michelle; Michael Sullivan, his wife Amy; nieces, Abigail, Alexa, Riley, Amy, Maggie, Cate; and nephew, James as well as many other extended family and friends.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, January 25th from 4-8pm at Memorial Funeral Home, 155 South Ave, Fanwood, NJ 07023. A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, January 26th at 1030am, at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, Scotch Plains, NJ. Cremation will follow and is private.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Joe's and Meghan's education fund via Everloved.
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July 18, 2024

Joe Zenkus posted to the memorial.

March 19, 2024

Ronnie Scott posted to the memorial.

February 29, 2024

john S Isaacs posted to the memorial.

Joe Zenkus

July 18, 2024

I recently heard of Paul´s passing.
It was gut wrenching to hear as Paul was a forever positive light for me.

A former colleague and friend. God bless to his family.

Best
Joe Z

Ronnie Scott

March 19, 2024

Just saw this on Linked In. Sad news. Worked with Paul during his Avecia days. He contacted me on the day I retired to wish me well. Great guy. Thoughts with his family and friends

john S Isaacs

February 29, 2024

To the Family of Paul McCormac - My colleague and I from CBRE were fortunate to have represented Lexeo during the real estate search for lab space at Lexeo TX. We spent a good amount of time with Paul and team during that time and are just so saddened by this news, there are no words to properly describe our sadness. While we only knew Paul a short time he had a huge impact on us, as he epitomized class and elegance all in a giant larger than life frame and personality. Our deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues. He will be sorely sorely missed.

John Isaacs
Joseph DeRosa

Darragh Breen

January 31, 2024

Shocked to hear of Paul´s passing. Thinking of his family at this difficult time. We shared plenty of laughs when we were both in New York. A real character. RIP.

James Delaney

January 28, 2024

I was very shocked and saddened to hear of Paul´s passing at such a young age.
We all have our memories of Paul.......I first met Paul, when we both started our postgrad the same week in Dublin City University Sept 1991. I also had the pleasure of sharing a work bench with him in AGO7 laboratory. Paul was a very tall, larger than life character with such an outgoing personality. He never made you feel like an outsider and was always very welcoming and willing to share his vast knowledge. What you saw is what you got with Paul, very down to earth and he always offered to help where he could.
I lost touch with Paul when we both left DCU and to my regret never got the opportunity to reconnect as life and other things got in the way.
My sincere condolences to Courtney, Joseph and Meghan and to the Sullivan & McCormac families. May Paul rest in peace.

Louis McNab

January 27, 2024

You were truly a gentle giant, all 6´8" of you. I will miss our random check ins, will miss our sports talk, that huge silly grin of yours. Our tartan day outings were the best. I remember you alway pushing me to run harder and in return I helped you break that 7 minute pace you thought you would never catch. Life was a candy bowl to you, you made everyone smile and feel better with your presence. Going out to watch Scotland and Ireland matches were amazing. Your love of Ireland and Glasgow was so real and can never be denied. Your love of life in general is something we should all strive for. Most of all your love for your wife and kids cannot be matched. They were your world, your everything.

My condolences to your family and friends. I cannot imagine what you are dealing with.

You certainly had a huge impact on my life.

Suaimhneas síoraí mo chara

Eco-Friendly Memorial Trees

MilliporeSigma Team

Planted Trees

Ciara Fullbrook

January 26, 2024

Such devastating news, still can´t quite comprehend it. Paul was such a fantastic guy, such a booming presence but with so much good humour, even after nearly 30 years I can still hear his laugh! He was always so supportive in the lab and his love of all things chemistry was so evident to all. Only had Facebook contact since those days, but the love he had for his family definitely shone through, he was so proud of them and my heart breaks thinking of them living without him. But he will live on in all our memories, rest easy Paul.

Tom McKittrick

January 26, 2024

Really sorry to hear of Paul´s passing. He was a larger than life character. I first bumped into Paul on the GAA fields where he played for Kilmore GAA and it felt like he was twice the height of the rest of us at U13! I ended up studying in DCU and sure enough he was already blazing a trail in there himself. A very smart guy who went on to become a top scientist. Always a great guy to have chat and a laugh with. I can´t imagine how his family and close friends are feeling right now but know that the love and goodwill of his wider circle will always be behind you and I´ve no doubt that Paul´s spirit will live on through you all. May he rest in peace

Bronagh Myers-Lake

January 26, 2024

I know Farmer since DCU days where amongst all the chemistry work there was also lots of nights out which were always great craic. And also in his days at Pfizer where he is very fondly remembered (as tall Paul). He had the respect of many and achieved a lot in his time. Condolences to his family. He leaves a fantastic legacy, no doubt.

Paul Rowbottom

January 25, 2024

I worked at Pfizer New York with Paul and introduced him to the Reservoir Dogs running club. Great company in the midtown happy hours and runs in Central Park. And always a superbly grounded voice of reason.

I was so sad to hear of his passing.

Ciaran Byrne

January 25, 2024

So shocked and saddened to hear of Paul´s passing. I have very fond memories of our time in DCU through undergrad and post grad and when we worked together in Pfizer. He was very knowledgeable and always happy to have a detailed technical discussion. He was always great company and the life of the party. May he rest in peace. Thinking of Courtney, Joseph, Meghan and the McCormac family at this difficult time.

Nene Kalu

January 25, 2024

My deepest condolences to Courtney, Joseph and Meghan and Paul's entire family. I pray for God's comfort and peace during and beyond this impossibly difficult time.
Losing Paul is an incredibly devastating tragedy. I was fortunate to work with and watch Paul work and can say that he was without a doubt one of the most intelligent, dynamic people I've ever known. Paul's presence was seismic, he could talk to anyone about anything. Paul was an advocate for his team members, a thoughtful and gracious leader. He changed the course of the lives of everyone who had the opportunity of working with him. His memory and legacy will live on in the lives and work of everyone who met him. May his soul rest in peace.

Albert Pratt

January 25, 2024

Paul was an excellent undergraduate student at DCU, known by students and staff alike for his outgoing, cheery and mischievous personality which contributed much to the 'character' of his AS year group.
Later I knew him as an impressively conscientious and creative postgraduate research student. His interests roamed widely outside his immediate research area and his intelligent enthusiasm boded well for his post-PhD future which he has indeed developed into an impressive pharmaceutical industry career. We never got to meet in recent years but the occasional phone call or email with family photo kept me in touch.
He will be sadly missed and my condolences go out to Courtney, Joseph and Megan and to the McCormac and Sullivan families.

Brian Morahan

January 25, 2024

We remember so well when as teenagers Paul and his brothers Simon and Joseph visited their Uncles John and Oliver Martin in Ballinagare Co Roscommon Ireland. They were such a vibrant family and they really enjoyed their time on their Uncles farm and playing with Vivian and Kevin. Our thoughts and prayers go to Paul´s family and friends and we extent our condolences to John and Oliver Martin in Ballinagare.

John Deegan

January 24, 2024

I remember Paul from my St. David´s school days in Artane. While I hadn´t seen Paul in many years I still can recall his booming presence in the classroom and at PE. We got in touch again in recent years on Facebook - I followed his success and was very happy for him. Condolences to Courtney, his children and his family.
Rest in Peace fella.

Siobhán O´Keeffe

January 24, 2024

Shocked and saddened to hear of Paul´s passing. I have very fond memories of shenanigans in AG07 during our post grad days at DCU. Paul was always so knowledgeable. An excellent chemist and a sound bloke. Sincere condolences to all his family.

Tom Loughman

January 24, 2024

I was in college with Paul and he had a unique ability to bring people together as he was popular across so many different departments. For those of us more shy than he was he was a great guy to know. I always knew I was in the right place whenever I walked into a bar or a party and saw him there. He switched from chemistry to biological sciences seamlessly and became expert in both. A lovely and very smart guy.

Jennifer Ohayon

January 23, 2024

Even though I was not privileged to have daily interactions with Paul...it sure was a comfort to know that he was overseeing everything technical from backstage! I appreciated the forward-thinking commitment Paul instilled in each of us, and particularly his communication style in doing so: absolutely direct!, transparent, best practices-driven; yet, always with a compassionate spirit, instilling a passion, not only regarding our own work, but also the need of serving those with unmet medical needs.

Kathy Church

January 23, 2024

I never met Paul, but he sounds like he was a wonderful man. His son Joe is in my grandsons class at McGinn and I know the entire school family sends their thoughts and prayers for the family. May his memories bring you all peace

Naomi Baer

January 23, 2024

I first met Paul when Lexeo was just starting out and a virtual company, with an idea and dream. Paul was dynamic, enthusiastic and not only an amazing leader but a thoughtful man. This is such a loss to all who knew him. My heartfelt condolences go to his family. The MilliporeSigma family is honored to have worked and collaborate with Paul and his team, we have you all in our thoughts and prayers.

DEREK HOBBS

January 23, 2024

So sorry to hear of Paul's untimely passing. Fond memories of playing with Kilmore GAA with Paul, hanging around the green in Hazelwood and fun nights in the village disco, Coolock. A gentle giant, Paul stood out as a teenager for his intelligence & ambition. My sincere sympathies to all his family, you're in my thoughts and prayers

Orla Wilson

January 23, 2024

I was so sad to hear about Paul´s passing, it is hard to fathom. I was a lab mate of Paul´s in DCU and it´s safe to say he was the glue that held AG07 together for years. He was ferociously smart and had time for everyone, whether it was in the lab, on the basketball court or in the pub. I feel lucky to have caught up with him recently when I coaxed him to Baltimore to give a seminar at Hopkins. We snuck down to a DCU alumni event in DC that evening and had a great time catching up after many years. He talked my ear off for the entirety of the train journey there and back about his family - it was clear he was a ferociously proud and loving family man. My sincere condolences to Courtney, Joe and Meghan and to all the McCormac and Sullivan family at this time.

Group of 10 Memorial Trees

Seo Salimi

Planted Trees

James & Anne Buckley

January 23, 2024

Sincere condolences to the Pat, Joe, Simon, Paul´s wife Courtney and his children Joe and Meghan. You all are in our thoughts and prayers.

May Paul´s gentle soul Rest in Peace.

James & Anne Buckley and family - Artane

Paul Glynn

January 23, 2024

On behalf of my family, I want to extend our sincere condolences to Paul´s wife Courtney, his children Joseph and Meghan, to Paul's brothers Simon and Joe, his mum, Pat, and all of Paul´s extended family. I've known Paul for four decades - lived in the same part of Dublin, went to the same school and Uni. As a teenager, Paul's brother Simon and I were very good friends and I spent many a time over at their house. Later, I was lucky enough to be at University with Paul and I have fantastic memories of my time there and my friendship with Paul. Thanks Paul for the friendship and company, the laughter, and the great memories. I remained in contact with Paul and remember both Simon and Paul coming over to Dublin in 2016 and we met up for our secondary school St David's 50th Anniversary (Tamangos of all places). In all the years, I don't think I can remember Paul not being in a good, if not great, mood! One of the most positive people I think I've ever met. I'll never forget you my friend. Rest In Peace

Ron Fedechko

January 23, 2024

My sincerest condolences to you, Courtney, your children, and your family. I still cannot believe he is gone. He was a true friend and we shared many conversations about science and politics while we were together at Pfizer. My fondest memories of Paul were from our Reach the Beach runs. His energy and passion inspired the entire team, and the sight of him in his kilt always brought a smile to my face. He was larger than life and his memories will live on in all of us who knew him. May he rest in peace.

Padraic V Kenny

January 23, 2024

Sincere condolences to Paul´s wife Courtney, his children Joseph and Meghan and all of Paul´s extended family. First met Paul as a big booming joyful Dubliner and was lucky to work and learn from him in DCU. Received unprompted support and encouragement in later years. His hugely successful achievements in our industry remain inspirational.

David Moody

January 23, 2024

I helped recruit Paul into Avecia where he made a huge impact. We became good mates and shared a lot of laughs and ideas over the years.
Paul was a brilliant scientist-full of curiosity and energy-a chef among cooks in the early days of DNA medicines. No surprise that he achieved so much.
I will remember Paul most for his boundless energy, intellectual honesty and curiosity. A wild horse of a man who could nevertheless focus on the winning post.
David Moody

James Lawler

January 23, 2024

I was totally shocked and saddened to hear of Paul's passing and my sincere condolences to his family. He was a larger than life character and you always knew when Paul was in the room. At heart he was a big softie and a good friend to all

Frances Weldon

January 22, 2024

Very sad to hear of Paul's passing. Paul was a fabulous and forward thinking chemist, talented, super smart and brimming with enthusiasm. I remember the laughs during many Science Society trips while at DCU and nights out.
Sending our sincere condolences to Courtney, Meghan and Joe, to the McCormac and Sullivan families. Thinking of you all.
Frances & Woody

Shirley McCollin

January 22, 2024

My deepest condolences to Paul's wife Courtney and children Joseph, Meghan, to his family and friends. May he rest in peace and rise in glory.

Eternal rest grant unto Paul, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Julie Allen

January 22, 2024

Paul was a remarkable human being who will be missed by so many! May God hold him in the hollow of his hand, his soul at peace. Sending much love into the universe to you Courtney and your beloved children Joe and Meghan. Ar scáth a chéile a mhaireann na daoine.

Joan Sheehan

January 22, 2024

Remembering Paul aka Farmer as a childhood friend. RIP

Sunil Desai

January 22, 2024

Extremely saddened. Heartfelt condolences. Fondly remember several interesting discussions during our work trips. May he rest in peace.

Enda and Marie Miland

January 22, 2024

Shocked and saddened to hear about Paul. Sincere condolences to all of his family. Intelligent and funny. An energy giver. May he rest in peace.

Brendan Hughes

January 22, 2024

Paul was a colleague in Pfizer and I really enjoyed working with him and stayed in touch after I left. He had a fabulous combination of intelligence, pragmatism and an enjoyment of working with other people. I met him at his new labs in NYC only last year. My sincere condolences to all the family. We will remember Paul.

Lisa Singleton

January 22, 2024

Playing kick the can in Hazelwood as kids. His big smile. RIP Paul

Ellen McCormick

January 22, 2024

I send heartfelt condolences to the McCormac family. He was not only extremely bright, but also kind, funny and forward-thinking. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Claire Wilde nee Lynch

January 22, 2024

To the McCormac and extended family and friends of Paul. Pauls mum Pat and my mum Eilish were very good friends so we were regular visitors to Hazelwood. I cannot believe that Paul has passed. May he rest in Peace

Christine Smith

January 22, 2024

My thoughts and prayers to Paul´s family and friends. I was one of the lucky ones that had the opportunity to work with him during his time at Pfizer. He will be remembered for his love of life, family and science. My sincere condolences.
Christine Smith

Rosaleen Hobbs

January 22, 2024

He was always a gentle giant God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Vivian Hwang

January 22, 2024

Paul was always a positive presence full of energy, fire, and ambition. He will be greatly missed at Lexeo Therapeutics.

Liam Ryan

January 22, 2024

Paul was my lab supervisor as an undergrad ... terrific guy .. full of fun and an expert on Chemistry ! ... Very sad to hear of his passing

Charles Gordon

January 22, 2024

Terrible news, but I will always remember the life Paul brought to any event. We shared many adventures together in Dublin, Belfast and Glasgow, helped by his larger than life character. A great friend and colleague, you'll be hugely missed. Thoughts and condolences to Courtney, Joe and Meghan, and all of Paul's family.

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July 18, 2024

Joe Zenkus posted to the memorial.

March 19, 2024

Ronnie Scott posted to the memorial.

February 29, 2024

john S Isaacs posted to the memorial.