Terry McDermott

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Richard T. "Terry" McDermott on May 20th, 2023, at the age of 82.
Terry was born on September 20th, 1940, in Essexville, Michigan, to Joseph and Exora (Hebert) McDermott. He grew up in a loving family with six older sisters.
Terry was one of 28 students in his class at St. John's High School where he made lifelong friends, and most importantly, met Virginia Vermeesch. Terry and Virginia's first date was prom their freshman year, their second date was prom their sophomore year, and the rest is history.
Terry was a talented athlete and avid sports fan. He began speedskating at the age of 7 when his future brother-in-law, Dick Somalski, introduced him to the sport. He enjoyed early success, and in his first international competition at the age of 19, he finished 7th in the 500m event at the 1960 Winter Olympics. He went on to compete in two more Olympic Games, securing the US team's only gold medal in 1964 with an Olympic record time, and bringing home silver in 1968. One of his greatest honors was being elected by the US Winter team to be the flag bearer for the 1968 opening ceremonies. After hanging up his skates, Terry remained active in US Speedskating for decades.
Terry liked to say he "never worked a day in his life" because he truly enjoyed all of his business endeavors. To support his family during his early skating career, he worked in his Uncle Bunny's barber shop. After Terry & Virginia moved their young family to Birmingham in 1967, he began a career as a manufacturer's representative in the automotive industry. In 1980, he and Virginia started Champion Plastics, which remains in the family today.
Terry's family will fondly remember his love and devotion. Whether coaching or spectating, Terry was actively involved in the athletic pursuits of his children, and more recently, reveled in his grandchildren's accomplishments. Golf was a passion of Terry's, and he enjoyed playing with friends in Michigan and Florida. A friendly wager was expected. Terry was also happy in quiet moments solving Sudoku puzzles and watching any and all sports.
Terry was known for his easy nature, humility, and generosity. Anyone fortunate enough to have shared coffee & donuts, a round of golf, or a beer with Terry experienced a genuine and kind man who had a rare ability to connect with others.
Nothing made him more proud or more fulfilled than his 59-year marriage to Virginia and the life they built together.
Terry is survived by his wife, Virginia; his five children, Joyce (Paul) Farley, Lynn (John) DaDamio, Mike (Sue) McDermott, Patty (Matt) Olson, and Matt (Kim) McDermott; his 11 grandchildren, Chris (Nicole) Farley, Allie Farley, Ben and Emily McDermott, Rachel, Matthew, and Audrey DaDamio, Molly and Ryan Olson, Ellie and Drew McDermott; and great-granddaughter, Blair Farley. He is also survived by his sisters Lorraine Munley, Kay Vink, and Maureen McDermott.
Terry was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters Colleen Bell, Marilyn Somalski, and Carole Gradowski; and in-laws Gil Bell, Dick Somalski, Tom Gradowski, Jim Vink, Bob Munley and Ted Balwinski.
A visitation with the family will be held at A.J. Desmond & Sons, 32515 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak, MI 48073 on Thursday, May 25, 2023 from 3:00 – 8:00 PM, with a Scripture Service at 7:00 PM. A funeral mass will be held on Friday, May 26, 2023 at 10:00 AM at St. Hugo of the Hills Catholic Church, 2215 Opdyke Rd., Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304. Terry will lie in state beginning at 9:30 AM. The funeral Mass will be livestreamed and can be found here.
For those who wish to make a memorial donation, please consider the US Speedskating Foundation, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, or a charity of your choice.