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JOHN D. MCLATCHY JR.

1961 - 2017

JOHN D. MCLATCHY JR. obituary, 1961-2017, Wilmington, NC

BORN

1961

DIED

2017

FUNERAL HOME

JOHN MCLATCHY Obituary

JOHN D. MCLATCHY, JR. Our wonderful and loving husband and father, John McLatchy, 55, passed away on Sept. 13, 2017 due to complications from pancreatic cancer. John was born in Philadelphia, PA on Oct. 5, 1961 to John McLatchy, Sr. (Jack) and Mary Virginia McLatchy (Buff). He grew up in Littlestown, PA and graduated from Littlestown High School and Dickinson College, Carlisle, PA. He started the Front Street Brewery in 1995 - when breweries were "not in" yet in NC and was currently the owner of The Bridge Tender and Fish House Grill. John was literally and truly one of the kindest, most genuine person you could ever meet. At 6'5" he was a true "gentle giant". As one friend stated, "John's size could have been intimidating but he used it to exude great warmth and kindness." Not many people knew a lot about John but he knew a ton about them - he was a listener. Owning restaurants was his true calling. John knew most of his patrons not only by name but also knew their children's names, what school(s) they attended and what sport(s) they played. His family was his LIFE! A great day in John's world was working, attending whatever sporting event his children were participating in and eating dinner at 9:00 pm or later with Catherine just so they could "catch up". Survivors include his wife of 25 years, Catherine; his four children whom he fiercely adored, Zachary, Lucas, Ava and Liza; his parents; his brother Tim McLatchy and wife Johanna of Annandale, VA; his sister Sherry Lee Harris and her husband Joseph of Chambersburg, PA and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his older brother, Kevin A celebration of John's life will be held at 10:00 AM on Sat. September 23, 2017 at Port City Community Church, 250 Vision Dr. Wilmington, NC. 28403. The family will receive friends immediately following the service. Please honor John's memory by drinking a good craft beer and taking an extra minute to "really listen" just a bit more. John will be painfully missed by his family however comforted in knowing he is finally "pain free" and in a much better place. Rest in true peace, John and Dad, we will love you ALWAYS! In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Lower Cape Fear Hospice, 1414 Physicians Dr., Wilmington, NC 28401 or to Port City Community Church in honor of John McLatchy. Online condolences may be left at www.andrewsmortuary.com. The family would like to send special thanks to the angels at Lower Cape Fear Hospice, our special friends and family (you know who you are) and our "second" family at the restaurants.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Wilmington Star-News on Sep. 17, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for JOHN MCLATCHY

Not sure what to say?





Jon b

November 5, 2023

I worked for this man, and he was an amazing boss. His kids were definitely his life. I'm in Florida now talking about the time i spent at the Bidge Tender with Mr
McLatchy. I hope this family is in good spirits and this message reminds them of the Love and Kindness of their dearly departed. He paid me my last check 2months or so before he passed. It was overpay as he always did seem to value his employees and showed that in generously paying us. God bless.

JonB

Tim Wentworth

November 1, 2017

Just stumbled across this, and am sad. John was like John O'Neill says larger than life, my secret hero whose life was obviously big, daring and successful.

Countless Dickinson College experiences were enhanced by this man.

October 15, 2017

Dear Catherine and family,

Kyle and I just found out about John's passing. We wanted to express our condolences for your and your children's tremendous loss. It has been many years since we have seen you both but, we have fond memories of our days with the restaurants. Our prayers that the beautiful memories that you have together bring you comfort and great peace in the days, months and years to come. Sincerely, Karen and Kyle Gaskill

September 28, 2017

My sincere condolences. I pray that the love and support from family and all his many fine friends carry you through your pain and grief. (Prov. 18:24b) Respectfully, Ali

June Sweeny

September 24, 2017

We are also heartbroken as all of his caring friends to learn of John's passing. We knew him briefly through the restaurants and dog walks on the Summer Rest trail. We will never forget his friendship, kindness, and generosity to us no matter where or when we saw him. Our prayers go out to Catherine and the entire family for now and in the future. June and Chuck Sweeny

Carmen Barnes

September 23, 2017

It was an honor to get to know John, and I am so sorry to learn of his passing. He was always very kind to me, and I thoroughly enjoyed our chats through the years. I will miss seeing John and having an opportunity to learn from the pearls of wisdom he would often share. Knowing that John sat with me and comforted me through my own crisis while clearly dealing with one of his very own speaks volumes to who he was and means more to me than I can ever express.
The Bible verse below (2 Timothy 4:7) inspires and comforts me as I believe it represents the way John lived his life--and especially the last weeks of his illness:

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith."

Brendan Collins

September 22, 2017

We only met John a few times but his gentle and welcoming nature was apparent from the start. We are truly sorry for your loss and hope that you find comfort in the love and laughter of friends and family as you celebrate John's life. Marsha and Brendan Collins

Caroline Davis

September 22, 2017

Please accept my deepest sympathy. I worked at the architecture firm John and Catherine used for Front St. Brewery. What a terrible loss. I will keep your family in my prayers.

Jeff Lakeman

September 21, 2017

I worked for John at Front Street Brewery many years ago. He was always kind and fair with me; especially when I told him of a serious health issue I had. My condolences go out to his wife Catherine, their children, and the rest of his family and large circle of friends.

Debbie, Harry and Ethan

September 21, 2017

Catherine & Family,
We are so sorry to hear of John's passing. Don't know you or your children personally, but did work at John's restaurants for many years. I can hear his distinctive voice calling on the phone "Hey, Deb. John here." What a wonderful person. God has definitely gained an amazing angel. If there's anything we can do for you, please let us know. (Cool's Refrigeration)

Sandra and Joseph Kittinger

September 20, 2017

Dear Catherine and family, We are so deeply saddened to learn of John's passing. We send you our love and prayers at this difficult time. We hope that the love of your family and community will sustain you in the days ahead. Love from the Kittingers

Steve Schnitlzer

September 20, 2017

I was so sad to hear of John's passing. I remember how hard we all worked opening the brewpub, and how crazy it all was. I wouldn't trade any of it though because it was an amazing achievement for a group of inexperienced folks to pull off - such an amazing feat and to create something that if it was gone, would alter Downtown forever. We all did that together, under John's leadership, and I will always be proud of that. And I will always remember John, smiling at me through the food window, telling me a head count, telling me, "get ready, its nuts out here!" John was a good guy. That is not faint praise. The world needs more of them, and right now, it has one less. I am very sorry that he is gone too soon.

Kevin O'Neill

September 19, 2017

John, I think back to our college days and the fun that we had; whether playing sports or pong; walking across the quad to classes; or eating in the Dining Hall. We all loved hanging out with "Big John McLatchy." You treated everybody the same; always smiling; always positive and with a twinkle in your eye. John, you made us all feel special. At Dickinson you were larger than life; and you went on to raise a beautiful, loving family and run successful businesses in a state far from your original home. You are truly a self made man who inspired; and uplifted your many friends. Heartfelt condolences to Catherine, Zach, Lucas, Liza, and Ava.

Shawn McGreevy

September 19, 2017

John was a special light in this world and his passing is such a great loss for his family, friends, and community. He truly loved life and it loved him right back. A kind, generous, genuine gentle man-he is gone too soon and will be sadly missed. Godspeed John. We will never forget you. God bless you and your family dear Catherine. We are lifting you up in prayer. Much love, Shawn and Tobin

Barbara Lewis

September 19, 2017

John, will never be forgotten! I will always remember the Party he threw for the boys when our sons played Soccer together at the Bridge Tender! Such a kind, warm, exemplary man! Such an honor to have been able to share such wonderful memories at his restaurants! Always, my family's favorite place to dine! His smile would light up the room and his heart would shine through! Rest In Peace John! My condolences go out to your family and friends!

Bill Thornton

September 19, 2017

John was a great teammate who really knew how to throw the outlet pass on the court and in life. My remembrances of him are very fond and he was beloved. My deepest condolences to Catherine, the family, and John's dear friend Eddie. I know my college days were richer for John's presence. He was special.

Erik and Krista Pages

September 19, 2017

Dear McLatchy Family,

We are so sorry to hear of John's passing. We were lucky enough to know him well and spent many years with him in college and during his time in the DC area. We are going to miss his fun and caring nature. He was a friend that you could always depend on. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you.

Joan Grainger

September 19, 2017

CATHERINE: I'm so sorry to hear of john's
passing. Good memories of the start of the Front Street Brewery.

Dan and Bonnie Rochester

September 19, 2017

John was/is a great man. His wings has always been kind and good. I enjoyed my short times with him at volleyball and the fish house. What a great life he had, Happy in heaven and we are sad on earth, condolences to the family.

May you fly where you choose and feel no pain again.
Rest in Peace John

September 18, 2017

We are heartbroken for your loss.John will be remembered in our hearts as a wonderful father,husband and a cherished member of the community.My husband and I only knew him for a short time but he made such an impression on us we are both grateful we had the chance to know him.Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family during this time of sorrow.
Sean and Leanne Newcomer

Alycia James

September 18, 2017

Our hearts are with you all. We cannot imagine your pain. Our community has lost a pillar of support but no loss is greater than what Catherine and children are suffering. Love to you all.
Alycia, Jeff, Madison James and Andrew Ottesen

Linda Currie

September 18, 2017

As Civitans I had the honor of working with John and his brother Tim at the Hospital Hospitality House and the McClatchy Brothers and Robert and I prepared and served Thanksgiving Dinner to close to 50 guests. I also was Johns banker and helped with the Brewery project and what a project it was!!! You will make heaven a brighter place my sweet friend. I will see you there. Catherine, I am so very sorry. There must be so many great memories to comfort you and the kids. God bless.
Linda Currie

Gail Rouse

September 18, 2017

Catherine & Family,
I am so sorry to hear about John's passing. He always seemed to have a warm smile and kind word to everyone he met. When I spoke to him over the years he always was so happy to speak about his children. Please know I have you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. He will surely be missed.

Shelly Sordellini

September 18, 2017

My heart breaks for Catherine, kids, family and friends. Unspeakable grief. John always had a smile on his face. I remember him coaxing Catherine to return his "I love you" over the phone, knowing she would be embarressed in front of friends. Such a small sweet memory. My prayers are with you. God Bless-

Lee Ann (Little) Study

September 18, 2017

So sorry to hear about our dear LHS class of '79 classmate. My Junior year prom date! Always a friend to all. Been way too long since we have seen John. He will be greatly missed to say the least. Take care John's family.

Heusel Family

September 18, 2017

So sorry to hear of John's passing. He was always so cheerful whenever we saw him. Our sincerest condolences to you and your children. We, too, dealt with PC and the mixed emotions of being glad he is in a better place, but missing him so very, very much. May your memories bring you comfort. He will be missed by all who knew him.

September 18, 2017

The Christchurch Family sends love and sympathy to all the McLatchy's.
We always enjoyed family visits to our campus and the great team spirit that John brought to our times together.
May today's sadness yield to happy memories for many years. John's example of character and spirit live on in all of us.
The Christchurch School Community

Pamela Vance

September 18, 2017

I pray God's comfort and strength in your time of sorrow.

Dan and Rene' Kaczynski

September 18, 2017

John always had a warm smile and offered his friendship freely. Condolences to the McLatchy family, John is missed.

Chris Gannon

September 18, 2017

I knew and worked with John for over 23 years on many of his ventures. He will truly be missed! My heartfelt condolences go out to Catherine and the children. I think John would have liked everyone to keep on going and doing the things they should be doing.I think that would make him happy. Again prayers and thoughts for the family he's left behind.

Ernest Addington

September 18, 2017

My sincerest heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you all. John walked tall, with integrity and respect for others. You will be missed.

Becca and Rik Beitel

September 18, 2017

Dear Catherine and family,
Keeping you all close in our thoughts and prayers. John could not have been more welcoming, kind and helpful to both Cody and Kirra while they worked at the Bridge Tender. We are very grateful for how he embraced them.
Much love

Anne Lineberry

September 17, 2017

Dear McLatchy Family,
You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

John and Sue Schoolfield

September 17, 2017

I only hope my sons grow up with the integrity, kindness, smarts and love of life that John had. John was truly a great person who will be missed by many. So sad. God bless the Mclatchy family.

Valerie Anders

September 17, 2017

Although we did not know John personally, we knew of him. Our son, Ben, has been the kitchen manager at Bridgetender for the past four years. Ben had nothing but praise and admiration for John, and shared with us how much he enjoyed working with him. If John knew our family was in the restaurant, he made sure our dining experience was perfect. Our prayers are with your family in the coming days and months.

Sandy Brannin

September 17, 2017

You meet few upstanding and outstanding people in your life. John was definitely one and we are sure his legacy will live in through Catherine, his children and his friends

Much love
Rich, sandy, kaitlyn, michael and Sarah brannin

Linda Callihan

September 17, 2017

I have no words. Prayers

Jeff & Elena Cazeault

September 17, 2017

McLatchy Family,

We are truly saddened to hear of the passing of John. He was such a kind and genuine friend that we will miss. We always enjoyed coming to The Bridgetender just to see John to chat about sports, raising kids and our teenagers growing up. Our sincere prayers go out to the entire McClatchy family during this difficult time. We are thinking of you all.

September 17, 2017

Dear all the McLatchys:

John was such a good, positive person. He was a great conversationalist and great listener. He will be missed!

The Hobart Family--Frank, Betsy, Adams and Finch

Terry Carter

September 17, 2017

Dear McLatchy Family,
So sad to hear of John's passing. He was always so kind. We always caught up with news of the kids. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you all.
Jim and Terry Carter

Brenda Pittentuf Kuhn

September 17, 2017

Rip, John. Fly high.

Amy Sentz-Forbes

September 17, 2017

So sorry for the loss of John, he was a special guy, I will always remember him teaching me the great game of Basketball in my younger days! He was an inspiration to all the younger players that watched him play during his high school career! Fly high John, until we meet again. God Bless your family!

Jerry and Sandy Powell

September 17, 2017

John was always quick with a smile and a positive thought as we met often in our wonderful Airlie neighborhood. Sandy and I looked forward to his warm greetings as he took a minute from his work day between restaurants. John was a very good person who has left us far too soon. We will miss him greatly.

John and Michelle Cooper

September 17, 2017

We are so saddened by John's passing and have continually had you all in our prayers. Our families were so close and so many memories of good times with Zachary, Campbell Lucas and Jack. Please know if there is anything we can do for you and the kids, we will always be there. John was such a nice guy and we will miss him always.

Robert Graves

September 17, 2017

I would not consider myself a dear friend of John's, but he always made me feel special when I walked into Bridgetender. John was truly a good man. I was so saddened to hear of his passing and I hope the family can find comfort in knowing he was loved and respected throughout the community. I will miss seeing him.

Danny & Ann Keir

September 17, 2017

Catherine & Family, Danny and I send our deepest sympathy and our prayers. What a wonderful family John left too early but one that he knew would carry on with his spirit, enthusiasm for life, and love.

Linda Padgett

September 17, 2017

John was such a wonderful person! We were so sad to hear of his illness and started praying for him and your family the minute we heard. His smile and friendliness will be missed greatly.
Sincerely, Keith and Linda Padgett

Mike Messineo

September 17, 2017

I really enjoyed talking with John at our daughter's high school volleyball games. He was such a easy person to have a conversation with. I am glad I got the chance to know him.

Monica Blanton

September 17, 2017

I worked for John for several years, and there is truely no other person as wonderful to work for and just absolutely none other like him. I am in shock and completely devastated for the loss of such a wonderful man. Katherine and kids, my heart goes out to you all and I am keeping all of you in my thoughts and prayers.

Askew Family.

September 17, 2017

A true family man and American. Enjoyed our time getting to know you John. I'm glad you are not suffering anymore. Till next time buddy.

September 17, 2017

What a loss...........He will be missed and thought of every time I drive by my favorite restaurant ......What a great guy!

Matt Rocco

September 17, 2017

Our thoughts, love & prayers to Catherine, the children, John's parents and the entire family. Every man must die, but not ever man truly lives. John lived and I am forever grateful to had the privilege to accompany him for a portion of his journey. John is a caring soul who will be missed by all who knew him. May He be in amazing peace and fully satisfy in the presence of our Lord.

Sean & Kathryn Desmond

September 17, 2017

Thoughts and prayers with you Kathryn and your family. John will be missed by many. Always so positive and uplifting to see.

Kelly Blanton

September 17, 2017

With our deepest sympathy. May Gods comfort peace and strength surround you and your family.
Sincerely Kelly Blanton Landen Dillon Monica

Anne, Carey and Emma Pleasants

September 17, 2017

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We were devastated to hear of John's passing. We will always remember him as the sports dad on the sidelines of Ava and Liza's volleyball games. He was so proud of you girls!

Pamela

September 16, 2017

John was truly a gentle giant and a great listener. I am heartbroken to hear of your and this community's great loss. John will always be a legacy. He will be someone I will never forget, as well as, many others. He gave jobs to two of my children, Evan and Emmi, and countless of their friends. I would dine at Fish House and he would surprise me and comp my meal just to be kind and thank me for my business. When I walked past BT he would come out and ask me about my family: what sports my kids were playing? who was their coach? how was my business? how was I doing? I will never forget him. God bless your beautiful family as you have been constantly in my thoughts and prayers. Much love to you all. Pamela, Tayler, Emmi, Evan and Lara

Cathy Maready

September 16, 2017

My love to you and your family, Catherine. He was an amazing father and husband. I will remember his kind smile forever.

Jim and Beth Quinn

September 16, 2017

The nicest , kindest man. Had the most amazing smile and the love he shared about his family You are loved and will be missed by many.
Much love to his family.

Elana Roberts

September 16, 2017

Dear Catherine and family,

We are so heartbroken to hear of your loss. John truly was one of the kindest people We have ever met. He was a ray of sunshine and brought so much joy to everyone. He brought a smile to our face every time we saw him, whether it was at a kid's sporting event or lunch at The Fish House and we are going to miss him. There are no words strong enough to express how sorry we are for all of you. All I can tell you is that we are praying for your family and sending you so much love.
Loni and Tony Roberts, Morgan and Madi Schoninger

Ricky Meeks

September 16, 2017

God Bless The Life of John McLatchy Jr. and the Family in our prayers. Last year watching New Hanover High "Wildcats" volleyball games he was Always there for his daughter, we share lots of Laughs together John love my voice cheering on the The Wildcats, He was a wonderful person and we both knew past employees of his restaurants. In Remembrance ❤ " Let's Go Wildcats "

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Memorial Events
for JOHN MCLATCHY

Sep

23

Celebration of Life

10:00 a.m.

Port City Community Church

250 Vision Dr., Wilmington, NC

Funeral services provided by:

Andrews Mortuary and Crematory - Market Street Chapel - Wilmington

1617 Market St., Wilmington, NC 28401

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