Michael McDermott, age 74, of Dardenne Prairie, MO, passed away peacefully at home with his daughter by his side on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, following complications from a heart attack and stroke.

Michael was born in St. Louis, MO, on October 30, 1951, to Edward and Imogene McDermott, the second oldest of eight children. His long career in telecommunications began as a young adult at Southwestern Bell and AT&T. Prior to his retirement, he served as the sole telecommunications specialist for FleishmanHillard in downtown St. Louis.

Michael had a lifelong passion for the water. His love for lake and river life grew during the 1980s while owning a cabin at the Lake of the Ozarks. Over the years, he captained several boats and spent countless summers with his extended family at the Yacht Club of St. Louis, where he loved hosting barbecues and pig roasts. He was also an avid fan of cars and motorcycles, and he never turned down good Mexican food or a great margarita.

Following his retirement, Michael relocated to the Tip “O” Texas community in Pharr, TX. He built a welcoming “homestead” that quickly became the favorite gathering spot in the park—where the music was always playing, and a cold beer or margarita was always ready for his many friends. He also cherished driving out to South Padre Island to spend days and weekends by the beach.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Imogene McDermott; his sister, Marcia Evans; and his niece, Stephanie Amsrud.

He is survived by his daughter, Deena (Todd) Jones; his granddaughter, Hannah (Nate) Vaughn; his grandson, Michael Jones; his great-grandsons, Owen and Aiden Vaughn; his son, Jeff Northrup of Spring Hill, FL; his siblings, Maureen (Ted) McEntee, MaryJo Alge, Mark (Beckie) McDermott, Marilyn (Mike) Nored, Matt (Cathy) McDermott, and Marty (Donna) McDermott; as well as many loving nieces and nephews.

Michael will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.