Michael William McMahon

Michael William McMahon passed away peacefully at home in Mission Viejo, CA on February 5, 2022, after a ten-year struggle with Parkinson’s.

Born in Pittsburg, PA in 1934, little is known about his early years. His birth parents were of Irish/Italian ancestry, and he was baptized William Crusoe. Mike was adopted into the McMahon family in 1938 and grew up on the family farm alongside his older sisters Shirley and Patricia in Irwin, PA.

Following High School Mike joined the US Marines and served time in Korea in his specialty of Underwater Demolition (UDT). After his discharge he attended Penn State University, graduating in 1961 with a degree in Recreation Education.

Mike enjoyed many years working in his field of Recreation and Parks in Long Beach, Las Vegas, and Sacramento. Following completion of a master's degree in Recreational Management, the family moved to Pullman, Washington where Mike was on the faculty at WSU. Returning to Southern California in 1977, Mike joined his father-in-law, Ted Matson, at Matson Mfg. specializing in marine hardware. After retiring in 2000, he and Marilyn lived in Springville, a small rural community in the Southern Sierra. Quiet country life and many fond friendships ensued. In 2019 they moved to Mission Viejo to be closer to family.

Mike was an outdoors person. He loved hiking, boating and especially soccer both as a player and a referee. He was a long-time member of Alamitos Bay Yacht Club and Isthmus Yacht Club and was active in leadership roles in many sailing organizations. During retirement years, he and Marilyn enjoyed RVing throughout most of the US as well as time spent at Catalina and Big Bear.

A quiet Catholic, Mike’s deep beliefs were evident in the way he conducted his life and interacted with others. A kind and honorable man, many remember his sparking blue eyes, friendly smile, and mischievous sense of humor. His was a life well-lived.

He is survived by his wife, Marilyn, of 59 years, Son Jeff McMahon and daughter-in law Shelly Hedges, daughter and son-in-law Molly and David Tannehill, and grandchildren Michael Tannehill, Kathryn Tannehill, Nora McMahon and nieces Sheila Tappen, Sharon Ellis, Mona Shaw and their families.

All are welcome at either or both Services. RSVP’s to are appreciated but not required. March 17th is St. Patrick’s Day and green was Mike’s favorite color.