Dr. John W. McMahon, Sr. died April 28, 2015, with his family by his side. Born in Butte on the same date in 1931, he wrote an incredible life story in the 84 years from his first to his last breath.
Jack was the third of four children born to Brandon and Anita McMahon. While attending the Catholic schools in Butte, he excelled in football, basketball, and baseball, all while maintaining a perfect grade point average. Summers working in the mines were no doubt the cause for his academic success because he “never wanted to do hard labor for the rest of his life.” Uncle Jack Doherty promised to pay his college expenses as long as A’s were the only marks he received. After graduating from Butte Central in 1948, he went on to play football and baseball at Santa Clara University. Summers were spent in Montana playing semi-professional baseball in the Copper League, working in the mines, and building what would eventually become the family cabin at Georgetown Lake.
Although Jack debated between the priesthood or a career in coaching, he eventually decided medicine was his calling. This led him to St. Louis University Medical School, where he met Joan Livingston in his Biochem class. His relentless pursuit paid off when she accepted his marriage proposal, despite the fact that she had two other dates scheduled for later that night. They married on December 10, 1955. In fifty-nine years, he never forgot to tell her he loved her each night and how fortunate he was to have been the one she chose . . . despite the efforts of her parents and at least one of those suitors trying to talk her out of marrying that boy from Montana.
While completing his residency in general, vascular and thoracic surgery in St. Louis, he and Joanie welcomed Jack Jr., Steve, Joan Marie, and Joe. In 1962, they moved to Helena, where Jack began his practice at St. John’s, and St. Peter’s Hospital. They added Mary Anne, Mike, Tim, Mary Ellen, Tom, and Dick (mom’s favorite) to the family. Jack was famous for telling people that when the priest said to go forth and propagate, he thought he was responsible for the whole world. He and Joanie also welcomed their home to countless others, most importantly, Ramon Rodriquez, Kathy Battrick, and Charlie, Ron, Nancy and Sunny Mott. He taught his children that serving God meant serving those around them, learn from today and do better tomorrow, and if you are having a bad day, “get your ass to church.”
Along with his thirty-one year medical career, Jack was committed to serving his community through a number of professional medical organizations, the Catholic Church, and the Helena athletic community. For all of his kids and grandkids, he did his best to make every game they participated in as either a competitor or coach. He was a fixture on the sidelines or in the stands at both Capital and Helena High, Carroll College, Utah State, University of Louisville, and SEVERAL NFL teams (sorry Tom). In addition, to his love of athletics, he had a deep appreciation for spending time in all that Montana has to offer. Pack trips, float trips, hunting camp, and summers at the Georgetown/ Lincoln cabins were some of his family and friends greatest adventures.
He was preceded in death by his son, Steven Edward, his parents Brandon and Anita, siblings Steve, Tom, and Mary Jo and his lifelong friends: John and Alice Hale, Roy and Billie Rule, and Dick and Marge Fryhover. He is survived by his wife, Joan, his children and their spouses, and over fifty grandchildren.
A family celebration of Jack’s life is planned. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Doc’s memory may contribute to St. Peter’s Hospice, local youth organizations, Carroll College, Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers, Helena Food Share, or an organization of their choice. Please visit www.retzfuneralhome.com to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Jack.
Lynn Solomon says
Dr. McMahon is a patriarch to a great family and an amazing extended family. He was kind and generous and dang, he and Mrs. McMahon raised some exceptional children. Deep peace to him from the Solomons.
Terry W Bass says
A truly wonderful man. May he rest in Peace and may his family be blessed by God.
Roberta Threet says
My thoughts and prayers are with the McMahon family.
Steve Moore says
Doc was one of the most significant persons ever to be a part of my life and I will miss him dearly, far more than he could ever realize. He assisted me and my wife Karen on various occasions over nearly five decades and we will be forever indebted. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mrs. McMahon and the entire family.
ron & addie shields says
Doc ” Saw-Bones McMahon” & “The Huckleberry Bear” Dick Fry and riding the mountains and valleys of their “Heavenly Home” My friend are gone but their ” Memories”
linger on. May God continue to Bless the McMahon Family. Ron & Addie
Bill Hake says
Words can’t express my feelings for this great man and his great family. All I can say is, as you endure the pain of his passing, be grateful he was a part of your life. I certainly am and I look forward to meeting Dick and Doc. again when my turn comes.
Doug Melton says
Thankful to have known the McMahon family. My heart felt condolences go out to each and every one of you. Many good memories of feeling welcome, cared for and appreciated. Take care. Doug Melton
Suzie Solomon says
Doc McMahon has left an amazing legacy. Helena was lucky to have him care for so many of our loved ones. My thoughts and prayers to the McMahon family.
Angie (Clinch) Johnson says
Dr. McMahon took care of me several times and was my surgeon when I was a teenager. His daughter Missy was my Carroll classmate. I could not say how many times I have met a doctor and compared them to him, thinking about his ability to explain things and make a person feel cared for. I always told my mom that if I were ever really hurt, I’d want him there to take care of me. I would hope that all the doctors in Helena will keep his memory alive and remember the great care he gave all his patients, and do their best to live up to his legacy. I know all his kids will find comfort, in part, knowing all the good he did while he was here.
Gerry Fullerton Sun Lakes, AZ. says
When Dr. Mahon and I were both 33 years old, he performed surgery on me that involved
cancer and other serious conditions. I ‘ve been told by other Doctors, through the years,
that I’m lucky to be alive. Thanks again Dr.Mahon, rest in peace.
Ryman Peters (Kelly's Brother) says
I just want you all to know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Lana Faber says
When I was a young nurse just starting out ‘Big Mac’ could be one scarey surgeon. I caught his wrath more than once when something wasn’t done correctly for his patients. The neat thing? He always called when he got home and apologized. He will forever be a part of my nursing career memories. Thoughts and prayers.
Maureen (Elford) Foster says
Thinking of you all and lifting you up–I am truly sorry for your loss . I was so thankful to be included as part of the family during my teen years–truly a blessing for a young girl who lost her own Dad at the age of 12…
Fr.LeJacq says
The Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers are grateful to this gentle man of faith whose love and devotion will find a home and legacy in our work of mission.
Fr. Peter LeJacq, M.M.
Hollis K Lefever MD says
I regret that I was not permitted to participate in and make more public at any service the tremendous contribution that Jack made to health care in Montana. I respect the right of the very loving family to proceed, but it is worth noting that Jack’s service to Montana health services was exceedingly important in bringing us to where we are. Jack and I were very close in that we were born the some year and while I came to Montana 4 years before Jack, we persued very similar, simulataneous careers in working with medical organizations and legal and economic developments of medical care. The devotion to service for patients and providers that Jack provided merits careful consideration.
buzz helfert says
I first met Dr.John while working on his farm machinery; always a treat to go up Rimini on a service call. Later on, I had to do four live intubations in St. Peter’s O.R. as a part of my paramedic training .This was an uncomfortable and intimidating experience until ‘Big Mac’ showed up and introduced me to the O.R. staff as his friend-my stress level went to zero. May God bless a good man.
stephanie ford says
I will miss you uncle jack I know you are in a better place you are now with my grandpa your older brother uncle steve and aunt mary Jo. I remember when the last time I saw you it was when I was two and we went to the beach with my mom and my brother those are the times I am going to remember.also you where the only one in our family then could pick me up and I wouldn’t cry. you will for ever be in my heart and mind and you where the best great uncle I could have ever asked for and I am proud to be a McMahon. I just wish I could have seen you one last time. love and miss you uncle jack. love Stephanie.
Jeanne Naegele Kohal says
I know that I speak for the entire Naegele family in expressing our deepest sympathy at the passing of Dr. Jack. I remember the “wonder years” on Stuart St., Stevie and I were little buddies, Missy and her tiny crutches when she hurt her leg, and Dr. Jack coming over and prescribing ginger ale when I accidentally drank the bubble bath. I’m sure my brothers, John and Tom, have a few memories of their own of those days as well. No family could ask for more loving care than he gave to our mother Rena, so many years ago, as well as being such a good friend to our dad Jack during that difficult time. Our dad is 90 now and I’m sure he would agree in what a pleasure it has been for our lives to have been touched by such an outstanding man. Joanie and family, please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Pat and Amy Sassano and family says
Dick, Diana, and boys – you are in our thoughts and prayers. We hope that amazing memories comfort you now and in the future.
Dave Dreher says
Kathy Battrick, Tim, Tom and all the McMahon family, my most sincere condolences at the loss of your family patriarch. There is a huge hole in this earthly life but a wonderful contribution to the heavenly environs. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Greg and Karen Grove says
Only knowing Grandpa Jack McMahon for less than ten yrs…….. it was obvious to us – Jack allowed the spirit of God to work in him; in a manner, that surpasses comprehension, to most. Brilliant yet humble. Tough but soft. The list could go on. Our sincere sympathy to all of the extended family. May the process of prayer, guide you through this huge loss.
Love and peace to all of you,
Greg & Karen Grove
(Jeremy’s parents. Married to Joe’s daughter Amanda)
Jenni Grove says
Thoughts and prayers to you all. Only knew Grandpa Jack a bit through Amanda, but heard stories about him that were full of love, family and community! May God bring you peace and comfort.
Carol E. Bonner says
I am remembering the days I had Dr. McMahon leave the golf course to come do physicals for admissions at Shodair. We discussed such a wide variety of subjects afterwards. I remember his telling of tracheotomies in the woods, the leg settings in the parks, and such praise for being married to a wonderful woman. He was an astute & knowing physician. I have lit a candle in his memory.
Chris Glosser says
Doc was truly a great man, I will miss him . I appreciate every moment I got to spend with him. All my best to the family and to my friend Doc, “Thank You.”
Leanna Ihde says
So sorry for your loss. My condolances to the family!
Lisa DeGroat Goodrich says
Sending love and prayers for comfort. What a beautiful tribute. I only ever knew him as MaryAnn’s dad and someone my parents knew and for whom they had a great deal of respect.
Here’s to a life well-lived!
Dee Dee Ayres-Kirby says
Prayers and hugs to the McMahon family. The Lord has called another servant home! Amen
Cindy Sangray Jones says
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this time of transition. I believe all of Helena LOVED Dr. McMahon! And just as we all well know … he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, surgeon, friend, coach, mentor, spiritual leader and pillar of our community! We all were truly blessed by his presence and he will be sorely missed by all. Thinking of you Jack, Mary Ann, Mary Ellen, Ronnie, Charlie, Missy, Joanie and all of the kids and grandkids! With Much Love – Cindy (please give a shout out if there’s anything you need)
Dawn Carver Wetherby says
My first nursing job at St Peters was on the surgical floor. I was fresh out (1972) of St Pat’s in Missoula and was so impressed by “Big DR McMahon”. He was always so good to the nurses and his patients. I have fondly thought of him over the past 40 decades. The McMahon family has lost its patriarch and Helena has lost a good citizen!
Jason and Tana Westfall says
Tana and I have always felt special because we know, personally, several members of the McMahon family. Mr. McMahon was always around us because of our association with Tom and Dick. Supportive and helpful does not begin to cover how “Doc” nurtured the best in all of he young people he came into contact with during his years of service to Helena athletics.
It was with deep sorrow and sadness that we learned of Mr. McMahon’s passing. He left behind a legacy of service that none of us will equal. Those of us working in the field of education must surely look to “Doc” as a reason to never stop giving to our young people and to our communities.
Much love to Mrs. McMahon! You have so much to be proud of, not the least of which is a loving marriage to be admired. The loving support of your children and those of us who came to know you endeared you to us all.
Our thoughts are with all of the McMahons now. And we celebrate the life and memory of Mr. John W. McMahon! A father and community pillar for the ages!!
Jason and Tana Westfall
CHS Class of 1989
Milt Popovich , II says
I am sorry about the loss of Jack, we send our deepest condolences to Joan and your family.
I always appreciated how jack would send my dad a Christmas card every year, My dad would always talk about Jack. They had a great friendship, My dad really enjoyed coaching Jack and that Butte Central Football team.
Milt Popovich, II
Ruth Popovich, Mitriann , and Sandra
Todd Ketch says
I have so many fond and interesting memories of working with Dr. McMahon over the years. He meant such a great deal to Mountain Pacific and the American Health Quality Association (AHQA) alike. What I did not know, is that he and I share a birthday on April 28. His friendship and presence will be dearly missed, but his legacy will continue to be experienced daily throughout your organization, communities, and AHQA. Please pass along my condolences to his family, your staff and leadership. (Submitted on behalf of Todd Ketch, the Executive Director of AHQA, Washington, DC by Sara Medley, CEO, Mountain-Pacific Quality Health Foundation.
Sara Medley says
Dr. McMahon was the founding father of Mountain-Pacific Quality Health, a company driving innovation in health care systems for 42 years in Montana, Wyoming Alaska, Hawaii and Guam, American Samoa and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Without his vision, this company and its 130 member staff would not be able to assist health care practitioners, providers and other organizations make quality health care more accessible, safe and of value for the patients we serve.
With sincere condolences from myself and everyone here at Mountain-Pacific,
Sara Medley
Mountain-Pacific Quality Health
3404 Cooney Dr.
Helena,, MT 59602
John and Aggie Frankino says
Our love and sympathy to Joanie and family. Jack was highly respected in every phase of his life and contributed so much to our community. Jack and Joanie were a great team and raised a wonderful family. We know you will find comfort in each other and in your happy memories.
David Thomas, MD says
Jack and I worked together for years at AHQA at the national level for Quality Improvement.
We could always count on Jack to be practical and do the right thing. He would have been the one to say “the king is not wearing any clothes”. His strong leadership is missed. My condolences to all of you and to all of us who knew and worked with him
Marie and Bob Vanisko says
To Joanie and to all your special children,
Jack was always such a special person and such a great doctor! I credit him with saving my life when I had a ruptured appendix, and Bob and I appreciated his dry sense of humor. All of you who were students of mine at Carroll were delightful and I have such fond memories of you, Mary Anne and Tom, who were math majors. Your dad always kept us informed of what you were doing. May God be with you and may the spirit of your father live on through all of you. We are saying a special prayer for you, Joanie, at this difficult time.
Randy Dix says
Jack was a fellow who engendered relationships regardless of “whose side you were on.”
As a medical malpractice lawyer representing patients over the years, one would think Jack and I would not see eye to eye. Not true. I came to him often to get honest opinions and always did. His integrity was unquestioned for me.
On a personal note, we rode on a delta flight one morning to SLC and I developed gout. Jack had a plane to catch but took the time to write me a prescription and conduct an on the spot exam.
He is a credit not only to his profession but to humankind. My condolences to his family.
Tammy Copenhaver says
My thoughts and prayers to the entire McMahon family.
I cannot think of Doctor McMahon without smiling. He was gruff but fiercely protective, and his integrity second to none. I think of him similar to EF Hutton; when he spoke, people tended to listen.
I have such fond memories of him and his devotion to organized medicine on both a state and national level. He will be forever missed but his legacy will never diminish.
Dave Balkovetz says
I’ve thought about Doctor McMahon a lot over the years. In fact it has been over 40 years since we first met at St. Peter’s Hospital. I was burned severely in a gasoline accident and needed skin grafts back then. He was the doctor that saved by bacon! He came into my room one day and explained that he would do some skin grafting on me and that he was first going to use pig skin to start the grafting. Then he said, “Were going to make a football out of you”. Then of course after procedure he used some of my skin to finish the job. It took 28 days to get out of hospital and I look at my scars today and think of how great a doctor Jack was. I have seen Jack in church in the past few years and every time I’ve seen him I just had to thank God he was my doctor 40 years ago. I know Jack will rest in peace for all his great medical service to all the people he helped and loved.
Lisa (Gross) Nehl says
McMahon Family,
So sorry for your tremendous loss! May all your great memories help you through this difficult time.
Take care and God Bless!
Nehl and Gross families
Dick McMahon says
Pops,
One year has passed but I hear your words most every day. I miss you, I love you, and I thank you for showing me how to live a life well….Dick
Dick says
Pops,
It’s been one more year but my message to you is still the same…Thanks again for the legacy you left and the examples you set. Tanner, Timmy, and Tyler are hearing most of the same messages that I heard so long ago.
Dick McMahon says
Pops,
Three years gone… doesn’t seem possible. Thanks for watching over me and my family. Hopefully I’m living my life as well as you lived yours.
Always and Forever…
Dick
Dick McMahon says
Pops,
Another year, another message of thanks for all that you taught me about service to your family and others first. Lessons learned, lessons being passed on…. Dick
Dick says
Pops,
Hard to believe 5 years has past. Time keep running away with alot of things but not the lessons you taught on how family and service are the keys to a full life. Could not be prouder of the family I have and the various paths they are taking. Never a dull moment.
Always and Forever
Missy McMahon says
Dad,
I think I will join Dick in his memories –
I like Dick can not believe it has been 5 years. Just to let you know mom is still pissed you went first. We all miss you. Oly and I were talking and she said she sometimes can’t remember you voice – I was able to remind her with the classic “JESUS CHRIST MARY ELLEN” a line she and the rest of us often heard with Oly being Oly.
Mom is tired and ready to join you, Stevie, Ron and Charlie. Not sure we are ready to let her go but also we are all ready to let her body have some peace. She never complains (though she pretends she is asleep -pisses Mary Anne off – the rest of us just laugh or make her talk to us) when we go to visit.
Your legacy continues to expand. The 2nd generation is raising kids as well as my siblings did. Not sure anymore will be named after you as Stephanie’s Julian Jack is an adorable little Shit – with you as his namesake and Brandon for his dad, I hope I get to live long enough to watch him grow up – keeps life full of smiles as do the rest of them.
Miss you dad, thanks for the love, the example and strength of the character to stand up for what is right, ethical and moral at all costs. Thanks for the lessons on family and service to others but how much more fruitful a hand up versus a hand out is.
Love you Dad
Dick says
Hi Pops,
6 years…hard to believe. Feels like just yesterday as I still hear your words most everyday. Wish I could gave seen when Mom was able to see you, Stevie, Ron, and Chaz again. Hope you didn’t take personal when she blew right by you and wrapped up Steve. Quite a sight indeed.
Still can’t thank you enough for all the lessons you taught. Use your thoughts so much in all I do and hopefully I have led a life of family devotion and service to others above all else. Super lucky to have the wife I have (just like your gal from St.Louis) and the three boys who make my chest swell up with pride just like yours did with all of us.
Always and Forever Pops….and to Mom as well.
Michael L Brown says
Dick – I had the pleasure of meeting both of your parents in the early 70’s while attending Carroll and teaching swimming lessons to a handful of your siblings. What a great family. Your mom was the greatest in herding you all to all of the activities you were involved in. I met your father both during my rotation at St. Pete’s and at the Foundation for Medical Care and was always impressed by his commitment to family and medicine.. Am so sorry for your losses after finding their obituaries this late date.
Dick says
Pops,
Seven years seems like seven days. Can’t begin to tell you how proud you would be of not just your three grandsons that I claim, but the whole mess of grands and great-grands that are all out there. Your kids raised some great kids and their doing the same with the next bunch. They all know it’s better to serve than to be served. Pretty awesome to witness down here and I’m sure you and Mom are enjoying the view yourself.
Thanks for all the unconditional love and support that you and Mom send out every day to me, my wife, and the three T’s every day. Always and Forever.
Dick says
Pops,
Another trip around and here we are. My God, 8 years. Only reason I know it’s rueful is the young men I’m closest to are not the boys they were the last time they saw you.
They’ve grown up and every day give me and Di countless reasons to smile. I can honestly say I can not think of three people who are more loyal and protective to each other (and their Mom) than Tanner, Timmy, and Tyler. All credit should go to you and Mom as it’s very similar to what growing up underneath your roof taught me…Family Before Everything.
Thanks again for looking out for me and mine and I hope it’s hell of a view.
Dick
Dick says
Pops,
So much has changed, yet so much has remained the same over the last 9 years. Di and I went from having 3 boys to now having to saying we have 3 adult sons. T3 hitting that mark in December certainly was a day I dreaded, but inevitably, knew it would come. With that being said, I cannot put into words how much I appreciate all the times you encouraged or kicked me in the ass a bit in your Doc Talk way. The messages eventually stuck, became crystal clear, and have shaped who I am and who the 3T’s are as well. As you and Mom have seen with your top side view, they give nothing but their best effort, see things through to the end, treat their mother and women in their life like queens, and (most importantly) put family first. Di and I are so blessed to have 3 amazing young “men” to claim as our “boys”. Full circle indeed! Always and Forever to you and Mom…..
Dick
Dick says
Pops,
Ten years…
Time certainly has been flying by but still the memories and lessons from a life well served are fresh. Thanks again for all the gifts you gave and continue to give to me and mine. I miss you and mom as much today as the day each of you moved on but rest easy knowing I’m surrounded by you both in a lot of ways when I look at Diana, Tanner, Timmy, and Tyler. Family first and do better for those around you…
Always and Forever Pops…
Dick