John "Jack" Francis McMahon

John Francis McMahon, known as “Jack” to all who knew him well, 96 years of age, originally from Chicago, and longtime resident of southeastern Michigan, went to be with the Lord on April 5, 2024, surrounded by his loving family in his Marco Island, Florida home. Jack loved and cherished his family members – personal and business – all of whom he held close to his heart. His connection to the people in his life were always important treasures, and his bond with them continues on.

Jack is survived by his children, Melissa Passon, and Theresa (Joe) Carter; his grandchildren, Sophia, Douglas, Michael, Carmella, Jack and Lucy; his sisters Patricia “Pat,” nee McMahon and Margaret “Mickey,” nee McMahon; his nieces and nephews, Michael Mullen, Dona (Danny) Hallquist, Irene (Marty) Duvall, Terry (Meagan) Mullen, Coleen (Terry) Dick, Patty Valker, Kathy Mullen, Shawn Mullen, Peg (Patrick) Rey, Susan (David) Americus, Donald (Denise) LaPato, Joan (Frank) Price, Karen (Chris) Felix, and Bill (Lisa) LaPato; forty-one great nieces and nephews; and fifty-five great-great nieces and nephews. Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Lillian McMahon (Bruener) and his brother-in-law Roger “Don” LaPato.

Jack attended De La Salle High School in Chicago, followed by St. Michael’s College in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where he majored in Business Economics, a degree that positioned him to be able to research, analyze, plan and lead across a variety of industries. He became a hard-working, successful entrepreneur and businessman for over 60 years, with his most notable professional achievement as that of a highly successful Michigan-based McDonald’s restaurateur and mogul. As a business owner, he positively impacted the lives of the hundreds of employees who worked for him over the years, acting as a mentor and example to them of the value of hard work and the importance of family loyalty. Aside from being her business partner for more than four decades, Jack was a faithful, loyal, steadfast and devoted son to his widowed mother for more than two decades, specifically in the aftermath of the untimely death of his father. He was an avid fan of many athletic sports, both as a competitive player and as an exuberant fan. He excelled in men’s softball and was a lifelong fan of the Detroit Lions football team. Jack was a devout and reverent Catholic, participating in and contributing to countless community, charitable, religious and civic related activities and organizations throughout his lifetime. He was a proud Navy veteran, serving in the military as his father had before him.

Over the last five years, Jack forged another significant relationship in his life, that of Nadine Bleeching, a selfless, thoughtful, kindhearted Caregiver who supported and assisted him regarding his general activities of daily living. Jack valued her tireless, enthusiastic partnership that allowed him to continue to live his best life, ensuring physical and emotional wellbeing.

Of note, Jack was a lifelong dog lover, and over the years had various canine breeds that included German Shepherds, Boxers, Doberman Pinschers and Rottweilers. He loved his dogs immensely, relishing the unconditional, loyal companionship they brought; his dogs added so much joy, happiness and love to Jack’s life!

Jack will be greatly missed by all near and far; his affable manner, his catchy story-telling abilities, his easy-going and pleasant nature, his interesting and storied past, his twinkling Irish eyes, his unmatched professional achievements, his warm and inviting smile, his unforgettable, hearty laugh and his signature pinky ring that he always wore, will all serve as reminders of him to those of us left behind.

A Memorial Service to celebrate the life of this incredible man will be held on Saturday, June 15th at 10:00 am at Holy Name Catholic Church in Birmingham, MI.

Donations can be made in Jack's memory to Guest House in Lake Orion, MI at guesthouse.org.