William Joseph McDermott, Jr., was born on December 8, 1939, in New York City. Bill grew up Catholic and attended Holy Apostles Seminary in Cromwell, Connecticut. He later worked for Macy's and Gimbel's Department stores in New York City. The hustle and bustle of city life gave way to sunshine and sand, when Bill moved to Florida where he lived for the rest of his life. In 1973, Bill married Judy and together they raised her two young children. Bill was active in church and community throughout his life. He held leadership positions in several organizations including President of the West Boynton Beach Lion's Club and on the Membership and Nominating Committee for the Boynton Beach Chamber of Commerce. For over three decades, Bill touched lives serving the larger community through his oxygen and medical supply business. In 2007, Boynton Beach Fire Rescue invited "O2 Bill" into their family as part of the Fire Prevention/Life Safety team. The few short years spent working at the Fire Department were some of his happiest. Bill's faith in God and love of family inspired him to join Trinity Lutheran Church. He served as the Vice President of the Congregation, Chairman of the Board of Education for Trinity Lutheran School, Chairman of the Board of Evangelism and in Stephen Ministries. Bill was a devoted husband and adoring father. He never met a stranger and never turned away a friend in need. He will be remembered for his quick wit, easy smile and enormous heart. In the words of his grand daughter, "Pop Pop had a beautiful soul".
Bill is survived by his wife of 37 years, Judy; a son, Daniel (Susan) Cousens of Lake Worth, FL, a daughter, Lisa Regan Hoefle of Tampa, FL, four grandchildren, Dakota, Zoe, Seth and Kelly; a sister, Margie Gronek of Lake Worth and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral Services will be held 10:00am, Saturday, April 16, 2011 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Delray Beach, Florida. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hospice of Palm Beach County 5300 East Ave, West Palm Beach, FL 33407.