Jack W. McDermott

Jack W. McDermott, age 69, of Galena, IL, completed his earthly journey on October 6, 2025, at the Midwest Senior Care Community.  Per Jack’s request, there will be no public services.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Jack’s family.

Jack was born on November 18, 1955, in Savanna, IL, the first son to Wayne and Lonna (Radabaugh) McDermott.  He was gifted with a strong independent streak and the ability to make friends wherever he went.  Jack spent many years working with antiques, first driving for Paul Goedken and then for Banowetz Antiques in Galena. He later managed the Banowetz store as he loved historic items and the stories that went with them. He also loved cooking, worked as a cook, and managed the kitchen at Benjamin’s in Galena for many years. He later moved into the carpentry trade with his cousin Kyle at Kobbler Kyle Construction.  Jack was meticulous in his work, paying great attention to detail. He continued doing handyman projects as he later moved into retirement.

In his free-time, Jack loved the outdoors.  When the workday was done, you could easily find Jack enjoying the Mississippi River at every opportunity.  Whether he was content to have a fishing pole in hand looking for the biggest catch of the day, or simply hanging out at the Ferry Landing with his friends, Jack was surely in his happy place.  Throw a little music in the background for him and he would always consider those moments to be as close to perfection as this life can offer.  Jack intentionally kept life uncomplicated and focused on the simple things that gave him pleasure. We will raise a glass to him by the river when we can, and are glad he is no longer suffering. Rest in peace Jack.

Those left to cherish the memory of Jack include,

his siblings,

Bruce (Amy) McDermott, Elizabeth, IL,

Wayne (Cathy) McDermott, Dubuque, IA,

Lori (Butch) Brininger, Galena, IL,

and Joni (Randy) Decker, Dubuque, IA;

his nieces and nephews and their families,

Emily McDermott, Travis McDermott, Rachel McDermott, Aaron McDermott, Nathan Glasgow, Kevin Glasgow, Jordan Glasgow, Sydney Bush, and Dylan Decker;

his step-sons,

Chris and Cary Gietl

and their children;

his long-time friend,

Denise Tollensdorf;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Chuck McDermott; his niece, Nikki King; and a nephew, Jacob Glasgow.

Jack’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at the Lena Living Center and Unity Hospice, and Midwest Senior Care Community and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.

Online condolences may be shared with Jack’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com