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John McCann Obituary
Capt. McCann was born on July 10, 1922, in Malden, Mass., son of the late Lt. Cmdr. John and LilliAnn McCann. He served in the Coast Guard from 1941 to 1973, and after retirement, he served as the dean of administration for Keystone College. During World War II, he served afloat on transports and with the amphibious forces, moving from New Guinea, the Northern Marianas Islands, the Philippines and, finally, into Tokyo Bay. During this time, then-Ensign McCann received little if any help from Gen. MacArthur or Admiral Halsey. During the Korean War, Capt. McCann built and operated a LORAN station northwest of Pusan. He and his men served temporarily with the 17th Bomb Wing. In 2000, he returned to Korea, representing the Coast Guard as a member of the presidential mission for ceremonies in connection with the 50th anniversary of that conflict's commencement.
He served as commanding officer of four vessels. Ashore, he served as executive aide to two successive Coast Guard commandants. He served on the faculty of the Coast Guard Academy, was the chief director of the Coast Guard Auxiliary and was the chief personnel officer at Coast Guard headquarters. He attended City College of New York, and was a graduate of the Coast Guard Academy. He held master's degrees from George Washington University and the National War College.
Also surviving are six children, Catharine McCann, Maine; Dr. Barton McCann, Maryland; Michael McCann, Montana; Coast Guard Cmdr. John McCann (Ret.), Maine; Donald McCann, Guam; and Mary Lee Schofield, Ohio; four stepchildren, the Rev. Susan Davis, New York; Ted Davis, Tunkhannock; Martin Davis, Sciota; and Mary Jo Warring, New York; a brother-in-law, Charles Morris, Colorado; 28 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
He was also preceded in death by a twin brother, Coast Guard Capt. Donald J. McCann, (Ret.); a sister, Edith; and a sister-in-law, Ann.
Mass of Christian Burial will be Thursday at 1 p.m. at the Church of St. Maria Goretti, 42 Redwood Drive, Laflin. Interment with military honors will be held at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va. There will be no public calling hours. Arrangements by the Lawrence E. Young Funeral Home, 418 S. State St., Clarks Summit. For additional information or to sign the online guest book, visit www.lawrenceey oungfuneralhome.com.
In lieu of flowers, Captain Jack would like you to do a good deed for someone else. He means it.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John McCann
Mary McDonald
August 9, 2023
He was the greatest Papa Bear ever
Mary McDonald
August 9, 2022
I miss him everyday.
What a wonderful man and Papa Bear!
Ellen McCann Hoy
August 9, 2020
Oh my goodness, what joy he and my beloved dad spread!
It is in our daily actions that need to be primarily filled with love and patience, that we honor both John McCann and my beloved father, Donald McCann. They infused their children with integrity, wit, and courage. They arw our heroes.God bless Uncle Jack and Dad, up in heaven scheming how to drop the queen on some poor, unsuspecting , yet willing, victim in a game of hearts.All my love to all the McCann tribe on this day and always
Mary McDonald
August 9, 2020
Papa Bear was the greatest, most loving man who ever lived.
I still find myself laughing at he wonderful time at Keystone with Mary Ruth❤
Mary McDonald
August 9, 2019
Jack McCann was like a father to me and I will miss him and Mary Ruth forever.
The world is a cold place without Jack's infectious smile and laugh.
T J Lynn Jr
September 20, 2011
Dear McCann Family:
I am saddened to hear CAPT McCann has crossed the bar. I was told long ago that he was a fine officer and a gentleman by my late father, CWO3 (ENG) Thomas James "Tom" Lynn, USCGC (Ret).
Dad sailed in CGC NORTHWIND with CAPT McCanns brother Don (1968). Dad and he were good shipmates.
On behalf of the entire Lynn Family I extend our heartfelt condolences and sympathies. God bless all in the Coast Guard Family.
Alan Breed
August 25, 2011
Mary Ruth and all the McCann family.
When I think of the ideal role model for a Caost Guard officer, Jack immediately pops to the head of the line. He was an outstanding leader,a gentleman, a man of intense loyalty and integrity, a wonderful friend and mentor. Captain Jack was the best of shipmates.
Jan and I extend our heartfelt condolences to you, Mary Ruth, and all the McCann family.
May, Jack, rest in peace in the house of our Lord.
Alan Breed RADM (Ret.)
Class of 1955
August 25, 2011
Peace be with the family and loved ones of Jack. He was a fine gentleman, and a loyal, dedicated Coast Guard officer. May his Light Shine forevermore in the hearts of all who knew him.
William A. Jenkins
RADM USCG (Ret)
Fort Pierce, Fl
Karen McCann
August 22, 2011
Love you always Granddad!
Debbie Goode-Jones
August 22, 2011
Lee and Dick Goode want to extend a heart felt symapthy to the entire McCann Family. I am helping them do this. I am their daughter Debbie. Capt McCann was UNcle jock for me. Loved his funny stories - get Irish sense of humor. God Bless all.
Fred Herzberg
August 20, 2011
Our friend Jack is no longer with us. He was the Class Advisor for the Class of 1955 at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy
I am sure that last week when Jack came marching (of course he marched) up the path to the Pearly Gates, there were many classmates and shipmates who had gone before waiting to welcome him, cheering him on.
It has been said that when someone passes on, a library is lost. In this case the library was full of books on graciousness, cordiality, good humor, dignity, kindness, gentleness, quiet strength, critical thinking, compassion for others, enjoyment of life; characteristics we all need to learn.
Jack was a teacher of these characteristics. Just by being himself, he was a role model for all who met him. For those that learned by watching him, the library is not lost. We carry it within ourselves. Had it not been for Jack, several of us would not have graduated and received our commissions. He made a difference in many lives. His influence lives on. We are so fortunate that both of you were able to join us in 2005 for our 50th Reunion.
He carried himself with an elegance that said “I am SOMEBODY, ---and I want to be your friend.” He was my friend, and I shall miss him.
I have lost a friend. I need to find a new one.
We all do.
Fair winds and following seas, my friend.
Lead the way. We will all see you again someday
Memoria Semper / Always Remember
Fred Herzberg,
Captain, USCG Retired
President, Class of 1955
August 19, 2011
Ahoy! What a wonderful and beautiful ceremony! Goodbye Captain, Finished with Engines!
August 19, 2011
Last night I was telling my wife about CG officers whose reputation for integrity was famous, service-wide, and Jack's name was the first one I mentioned to her. I described how I first encountered him when, as a Cadet in 1952-3, I failed to salute him in the 'Splinter Village' area, and added insult to injury by telling him "we had been told it was not necessary to salute the Reserve officers"! A few minutes of chewing out ensued, including being told he was just returned from Korea. (I still smile when I think of that chewing). A few minutes after telling her that story, I opened my email, and - what a loss, to your family, and to all of the rest of the CG family, Peace, Joy and Love be with you. Hilda and Jim Granger (CDR,USCG,Ret, CGA54/56)
Edward Pickett
August 18, 2011
Mary and the McCann family, I am so honored to have known Captain McCann since 1966 when I served a Reserve Deck Officer with him on the Sebago. He was great commanding officer, role model and friend to many. He is probably equal to my father in preparing me for my future life as a lawyer in Liberty, Texas. My wife and I greatly enjoyed our visits with him and Mary in Pittston. Thanks for letting us share him with you. Ed Pickett
August 17, 2011
A good deed indeed my friend Jack and a little magic to boot. A fine formula for a great life. I'll miss you Jack, I already do.....Joe McDonough
Lois Tompson
August 17, 2011
Our dear Mary Ruth and family,
We too, were the lucky ones to live next door on Brookshire 25 years ago when our kids were growing up. What a comfort, what a joy, what friends! Mary Ruth delivering ham and potato salad when we needed it most, visitIng on the porch laughing about the kids and always had some chocolate to share. Bart, Cathy, Michael, John, Donald and Marylee....we always hoped our children would grow up to be like you! Susie, Ted and Marty and Mary Jo often visiting, helping out and bringing more joy to this wonderful McCann family. We love you all.
Please know we share your loss and know that your Dad/Husband has found even more joy that we cannot know on this earth. No more difficulties doing what he loved to do. Ahoy, our dear friend Jack.
Lois & Sherwood
August 16, 2011
Dear Mary Ruth and the entire family,
I have very fond memories of Jack smiling, joking and laughing with us on the porch on Brookshire. I am so saddened to hear of his passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you, and I will most definitely do something special for someone else in his memory.
Marie Thompson Freeze
August 16, 2011
Dear Mary Ruth and McCann family,
I was lucky enough to live next door to Captain MCann as a kid over 25 years ago. I remember well his kindness, love for life and the sea and his great stories, told with humor and humility. He was a true gentleman. It is typical of him to ask that everyone do a good deed for someone in lieu of flowers, and say he means it, and you know what, I know he does and I will. My heart goes out to you.
- Grant Thompson (a/k/a one of the kids next door at Brookshire)
August 16, 2011
Capt Jack was the best CG Officer that I ever had the pleasure of knowing.
Capt Chuck Millradt
Howie Thorsen
August 16, 2011
To Mary Ruth, and all the family,
Marlyn and I send our heartfelt condolence. Jack served as advisor to our Academy Class of 1955, and throughout the years provided each member a perfect role model to emulate. He was a teacher, an outstanding Coast Guard officer in every respect, and most certainly a good and honorable friend. He will be missed.
August 16, 2011
Mary Ruth and family
Please accept our deepest sympathy and our prayers for you all in the loss of "Capt Jack". He was an ideal role model of what a Coast Guard officer, husband, father and friend should be.
We remember our good times together in Wilmington, and how gracious he and Ruth Ann were when we arrived. May God bless you all in this time of sorrow.
Fondly
VADM Deese(Ret) and Jeanne Thompson
Ellen McCann Hoy
August 16, 2011
Oh, greatest men - my dad and Uncle Jack....heroes to all of their children. Words are inadequate...all that matters is love, love, love...and Dad and Uncle Jack gave us that forever and ever, amen...
Craig Weymouth
August 16, 2011
To the McCann Family:
We are very sorry for your loss, while I never met Jack, sounds like we lost a great man.
Don, please take some time with your family during this difficult time and we will see you upon your return to Guam.
Regards,
Craig, Maria & Max Weymouth
Capt Jack and Mary Ruth
John McCann
August 15, 2011
Capt Jack
John McCann
August 15, 2011
Col. William Dillon
August 15, 2011
To the MCCANN family.
I can't even pretend to know how you feel, but I can tell you that everything will be OK, You will be Ok, and time will heal all.
Just knowing the Captain made me a better person and I'll remember that forever.
God Bless you all.
Elected PA State
Constable. Col. William Dillon
August 15, 2011
My beloved Papa. The best father in the world. Love, Mary Franklin
Jean Dombroski
August 15, 2011
Mary Ruth and family members: I am sorry for your loss. Jack was a dear friend. It was an honor to have known such a great, gentle , kind man. I will miss the wonderful stories he use to tell. I will miss his laughter. Most of all, I will miss him. May he rest in peace. Ahoy, Jack.
Jim Huffman
August 15, 2011
Sunset and evening star,
And one clear call for me!
And may there be no moaning of the bar,
When I put out to sea,
But such a tide as moving seems asleep,
Too full for sound and foam,
When that which drew from out the boundless deep
Turns again home.
Twilight and evening bell,
And after that the dark!
And may there be no sadness of farewell,
When I embark;
For tho' from out our bourne of Time and Place
The flood may bear me far,
I hope to see my Pilot face to face
When I have crost the bar.
Commanding Officer, Cutter Sebago, 1965-1967
RM2 Lee Wonnacott
August 15, 2011
The living shipmates from the Coast Guard Cutter Sebago (WHEC-42) mourn the loss of a fine officer and gentleman. Capt. McCann exemplified the spirit of our service. "Semper Paratus is our Guide, our Fame, our Glory too!"
Fair winds and following seas, Captain...
Irene & Bob Filippini
August 15, 2011
Dear Mary Ruth and all family members, Sorry for your loss. Capt Jack was a great and outstanding gentleman. It was an HONOR and a PRIVILEGE to have known him. We will always remember the good times we spent together and we will miss him greatly!
August 15, 2011
Dear Mary Ruth and all family members, sorry for your loss. Capt. Jack was a great and outstanding gentleman. It was an HONOR and a PRIVILEGE to have known him. We will always remember the good times we spent together and will miss him greatly!
Sincerely, Irene & Bob Filippini
August 15, 2011
Mary Ruth and family: I am so sorry to hear of Jack's passing. He was a true gentleman and a wonderful person. I will miss his ever smiling face and his always kind words.....
Ann Ray
Ann Ray
August 15, 2011
Mary Ruth and family: I am so sorry to hear of Jack's passing. He was a true gentleman and a wonderful person. I will miss his ever smiling face and his always kind words.....
Susan
August 15, 2011
Captain McCann was greated by many "Ahoys" when he entered his final port.Rest in Peace.
Constable William Dillon
August 15, 2011
I will miss the Captain very much as I knew him from attending St. Mark's Church for several years. My wife and I really enjoyed his kind words before Mass each week. May he rest in peace.
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