John McDermott, 80, Owatonna
John McDermott of Owatonna, passed away on May 17, 2026, surrounded by his family.
Friends may greet the family on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, from 4–7 p.m. at Brick-Meger Funeral Home, 1603 Austin Road, Owatonna, and again one hour prior to the funeral service. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Owatonna. The service will be followed by the playing of “Taps” and the presentation of the flag by the Steele County Funeral Unit. Burial will take place at Sacred Heart Cemetery.
John was born on March 28, 1946, in Farmington, to Robert and Emily (Sauber) McDermott. The family moved to Owatonna, and John attended his junior and senior years at Marian High School, excelling in athletics. He graduated with the Class of 1964. Following high school, John enlisted and served in the United States Air Force, where he proudly served his country.
While serving in the military, John married the love of his life, Mary Jean Stransky, on May 28, 1966, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Owatonna. They were just a few weeks shy of celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary.
During his military service, John and Mary were stationed in Omaha, Nebraska, and later in Puerto Rico. After receiving an honorable discharge in 1969, John returned home and attended classes at Mankato State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. Upon graduation, John spent most of his career in sales in the transportation industry and later retired in 2008.
John’s greatest joy in life was his family. He cherished every moment spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and especially loved attending their many activities and cheering them on. Whether at a game, concert, or school event, John was always there as his family’s biggest and proudest fan.
Beyond his love for family, John had many passions and interests. He was a longtime member of the Red Wing Collectors Society and enjoyed taking trips with Mary to find new antiques, especially Red Wing crocks. He also had a deep passion for genealogy and took great pride in researching his family history for future generations. In his free time, John enjoyed hunting, fishing, golf, and maintaining a meticulously kept yard—hobbies that brought him both peace and happiness throughout his life.
John is survived by his wife, Mary; his children, Sara McDermott and Patrick (Taylor) McDermott, both of Owatonna; and his grandchildren, Lindsey (fiancé Buzz Pool) McGurran, Eric (Amanda) Hansen, Lane (Mackenzie) Thiesse, Kathryn (Evan) Schulz, Olivia McDermott, William Granquist, and Eli Granquist. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Maren, Ethan, Noah, Abby, Taitym, Zoey, Rylinn, Braxton, Esmey, and KJ; as well as his siblings, Robert (Kim) McDermott, Monica (Gary) Lurken, David (Barb) McDermott, Margie (Tom) Harkins, Michelle (Bob) Lynch, and Mark (Lola) McDermott.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Patrick, and his sister, Maureen Wavrin. For more information or to leave an online message of condolence, go to www.megercares.com.