John "Jack" MacDade

He was born on April 11, 1925 in Des Moines, Iowa, the beloved son of Mr. Robert “Scottie” Barr MacDade and Mrs. Jean (Murphy) MacDade.

After graduating from high school in 1942, Jack answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy. He was assigned to the USS Yorktown, where he bravely served as a gunner’s mate in Turret #5 during World War II, surviving many major battles. His wartime service remained a defining chapter of his life, and he later shared vivid stories of those experiences with family, friends, and fellow veterans at Yorktown Association reunions.

Following his return from military service, Jack began his career as a surveyor before being hired by the National Automobile Dealers Association. In the later years of his professional journey, he found both fulfillment and success as a stockbroker. His strong work ethic, adaptability, and integrity were evident throughout every phase of his career.

Jack married his first wife, Patricia, in the 1950s, and they had two children, Tim and Terri. Tim and his wife Karen (Schafer) had two children, Shelly and Ryan and Jack’s great grandson Benson. In the 1970s, Jack found love again and married Dorothy (“Dee”) Reilly, who brought eight adult children, (Patrick, Susan, Tim, Peggy, Michael, Shawn, Daniel, and Kerry) into their blended family. The entire Reilly clan came to love Jack deeply. Jack and Dee shared a rich and adventurous life together, united by their love of golf and travel. Jack lovingly cared for Dee throughout her long life and she passed at the age of 99 having been cherished and supported by him every step of the way.

Jack was active in the church in each community where he lived, finding purpose and fellowship through his faith. Jack was a Knight of the Order of Saint George, a Christian order honoring his devotion to faith, charitable service, and a life lived in humility. During retirement, Jack and Dee made their home in Estes Park, Colorado. Jack drove the ski bus during the winter months and worked at the golf course in the summer, while Dee worked at the Trail Ridge gift shop. An avid golfer, Jack also enjoyed hiking, skiing, tennis, and weekly card games with his buddies. He generously volunteered each year at the Estes Park Scottish Festival. He looked for any excuse to wear his kilt and display his Scottish heritage. Jack was also a lifetime member of the Yorktown Association, where he treasured the camaraderie of fellow veterans and the opportunity to share his stories at numerous reunions.

John “Jack” MacDade lived a life defined by devotion to family, faithful service to his country, and an enduring spirit of fun. He leaves behind cherished memories and a lasting legacy of service, generosity, and love. He will be missed by many.

A visitation will be held on January 29, 2026, at 10:30 am at Messiah Lutheran Church, located at 1100 Log Shoals Rd, Mauldin, SC. A memorial service will follow at the same location at 11:00 am.