Howard Mcdermott

Howard Henry McDermott, Jr, 84, of Austin died Saturday, September 30, 2014 at Mayo Health Systems Austin. Howard, an only child, was born September, 24, 1929 in Austin to Howard and Helen (Hansen) McDermott. He grew up in Austin and graduated from Austin High School. In school he was an accomplished musician and played first chair clarinet under the tutelage of band director Mr. Sperati. Howard served his country in the Navy from 1948 to 1952. He served as both a navigator and member of the Navy Band. He played for many official ceremonies including the inauguration of President Harry Truman. While stationed in Pearl Harbor, Howard met his future wife, Rita Lopez. They were married on March 2, 1951 in Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii. Howard and Rita returned to Minnesota and made their home in Austin living in the same home, next to that of his parents, until the time of his death. Howard worked at the Hormel Packing Plant until his retirement in 1986. During this time he continued playing with bands including Ray Stolzenberg, Henry Charles, and Bobby Thompson at area ballrooms. After his retirement, Howard and Rita spent summers at their lake home in Northome, Minnesota where he enjoyed hunting, fishing and “putzing” in the shed. Rita died on June 1, 2007. Howard was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church. He enjoyed gardening, bee keeping, sharing stories and spoiling his dachshunds. He delighted in his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Survivors include his son, Rodney (Jean) McDermott, Austin; daughter, Anita McDermott, Apple Valley; son-in-law Gerard Judd, Austin; six grandchildren and five great grandchildren. He is proceeded in death by his parents; wife, Rita; daughter, Laura; granddaughter, Vanessa. Funeral services will be held 11:00 am on Thursday, September 4, 2014 at Westminster Presbyterian Church with Rev. Michael Olmsted officiating. Friends may call from 5-7 pm on Wednesday at Mayer Funeral Home and also one hour before the service at the church on Thursday. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery with military rites by American Legion Post #91. Memorials may be made to Westminster Presbyterian Church.

Service Information

Cemetery

Oakwood Cemetery
1800 4 St. NW
Austin MN 55912

Visitation

Wednesday, September 3 2014
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Mayer Funeral Home
600 2nd Street NW P.O. Box 27
Austin MN 55912

Visitation

Thursday, September 4 2014
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Westminster Presbyterian Church
802 4th Street SW
Austin MN 55912

Service

Thursday, September 4 2014
11:00 AM

Westminster Presbyterian Church
802 4th Street SW
Austin MN 55912