John H. McDermott

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Ann (Pickard), three children, Elizabeth (Edwin) Insley, Mary (Matthew) Tritley, and Edward (Elizabeth Doepke) McDermott, his brother Robert (Sarah Jaicks) McDermott, and 10 grandchildren.

John was a graduate of New Trier High School (1949), Williams College (1953), and the University of Michigan School of Law (1956). After serving in the United States Air Force, he joined McDermott, Will & Emery, in 1958, where he had a distinguished career as a leading corporate lawyer, retiring in 1999.

He served on the boards of a number of corporations including Heizer Corporation and Patrick Industries. He was a member for many years on the board of the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, as well as other charitable organizations. He was actively involved as a long-time member of several business and social clubs in Chicago and Florida.

He enjoyed singing throughout his life, from opera performances in high school, to the Williams College Octet and a capella singing groups throughout his career. He was a chairman of the Chicago Bar Association’s Christmas Spirits show, and its musical director for many years.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in memory of John H. McDermott to the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, c/o Temple Seigler, 345 E. Superior Street, Chicago, IL 60611