R. Michael Demech

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Michael Demech, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend who left us on Tuesday, January 21, 2025 in Shreveport, LA at the age of 85. 

R. Michael Demech, was born on July 12, 1939, in Pittston, PA, to Jennie Uritz and Michael Demech, Sr. He spent his childhood playing on Wilford, Curtis, and Cornelia Streets, often alongside his many first and second cousins and his best friend, Jimmy English. Michael cherished the Sunday night dinners and picnic gatherings with his large and close-knit extended family in Pittston, which became some of his most treasured memories. These experiences shaped his deep love and value for family, which he passed down to future generations through his actions and unwavering commitment to keeping family ties strong. 

At the age of 14, Michael and his family moved to Morrisville, PA, where he reunited with the entire Demech family. He attended Morrisville High School, where he met his future wife, Barbara. After graduating from Morrisville High School and Rider College, they built a life together in Yardley, PA. There, they raised their two children, Michele and Michael, who now reside in Shreveport, LA. 

Michael had a deep passion for business. Throughout his career, he excelled in running successful companies and contributing to the growth of others by harnessing his exceptional talent for bringing people together and fostering enduring business relationships. Many companies owe their achievements to Michael's remarkable sales efforts. This passion for business remained strong well into his early 80s. He often cited Mark Twain's words: "Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life." 

While work was an important part of Michael’s life, nothing meant more to him than his family. Through his actions, he instilled in his children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews the value of staying close to family. Throughout his life, Michael organized regular family reunions and hosted gatherings at his cherished Trenton Country Club, where he was a long-time member, all with the purpose of bringing family and friends together. Later in life, he and Barbara even traveled to Italy to connect with and strengthen bonds with his distant relatives. 

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Jennie and Michael Demech; wife, Barbara Jane Demech, mother and father-in-law, Ruth and Bill Temple; brother-in-law, Al Filipov and sister-in-law, Kathi Abate. Surviving are his children, Michele Hardtner (Quintin IV) and Michael Demech (Suzanne); his grandchildren, Quintin V, Charles, William, Lila Grace and Jacqueline; sister, Loretta Filipov sister and brother-in-law, Pam and Paul Weidenhaefer. Michael leaves behind nieces, nephews and many cousins. 

A service will be held on Friday, January 24, 2025 at St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral in Shreveport. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. in the church parlor, followed by a memorial service in the Cathedral at 11:30 a.m. Officiating the service will be the Clergy of St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral. 

The family suggests memorials may be made to St. Mark’s Cathedral School and St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral. 

The family wishes to express their gratitude to the nurses and caregivers at The Oaks of Louisiana - North Pavillion, and the entire medical team at Willis Knighton Pierremont Hospital.