Warren J. McDermott, 85, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family on February 17, 2014 following a brief illness. In his last weeks he was lovingly cared for by his wife, children and the VNA/Hospice of Vernon, CT. Warren’s faith, humor and tenacity were with him until he passed. Warren leaves his wife of 57 years, Barbara (Johnston), his daughters Cheryl (Casey) and her husband RJ; Karen and her partner Mary Hogan and his son Chris and his wife Rachel. Grandchildren Ellie & Mercer Casey and Zachary & Luna McDermott. Close relatives Terence, Alison & Clifford Lee; Brian & Bobbi Hennessey; Wayne Hennessey and Kathy Miller/Sprolle. Warren was born in Jersey City, NJ in 1928 and was lovingly raised in Teaneck NJ by his parents Joseph and Jeannette. He graduated from Teaneck High School and then joined the Marine Corps and was trained as a Meteorologist (this started his life long interest in weather). After his time in the Marines he attended and graduated from Villanova University with a Bachelor’s degree in business/marketing. His lifelong college friends nicknamed him “Mac”. He met his wife Barbara (who he nicknamed “High Pockets” because of her stylish attire) at Paris & Peart Advertising Agency in New York City. They were married at Saint Anastasia’s church in Teaneck NJ in 1957. In 1959 they moved to Cedar Grove, NJ where they lived and raised their children until 1980. In 1961, Warren started at Union Carbide Corp (UCC) in New York City and was eventually appointed the Director of Advertising and Marketing for the Home and Automotive Division. In 1980, when UCC moved to Danbury his group was relocated to East Hartford. They bought a house in Tolland atop a hill nestled in the trees and settled in. Over the past 30+ years Warren & Barbara created a sanctuary of peace and tranquility. Dad retired from UCC (Dow Chemical) in 1986. Together Warren & Barb enjoyed gardening, traveling, and their many treasured pets and grandpets. He thoroughly enjoyed organizing UCC retiree lunches & picnics keeping old friends and colleagues connected. Warren cared deeply about his town and community. He was a big supporter of the Tolland Food Bank and spent many years on Tolland’s Zoning Board of Appeals and was eventually appointed chairperson. He also thoroughly enjoyed reunions at Barb’s family cabin on Swan Lake in Minnesota. Warren had a passion for the outdoors and took great pride in maintaining his home working with his special friends’ lawn mower, leaf blower, and snow blower and brought him many hours of pleasure & contentment. Warren & Barbara’s hearts and home have always been open to all who needed support and guidance. They adopted many “pseudo” children over the years and showered them with TLC. Dad embraced friends and acquaintances as if they were one of his own. He was “Warren on the spot” and a jack-of-all-trades and never hesitated in lending a hand or his boundless strength to anyone in need of help or assistance. Warren was a parishioner at St Mathews in Tolland. He also attended Storrs Community Church with Barb. During his short illness Dad was inspired by the poem “Footprints in the Sand” by Mary Stevenson. It reminded him that it was his time to be supported, comforted and cared for unconditionally by his loved ones. His abiding faith gave him solace and acceptance. One of Warren’s legacies will be his lengthy and renowned prayer list. Spending time with his family was his greatest joy. Poppi delighted in hearing about his grandchildren’s accomplishments, activities and adventures. His encouraging words, actions and wit demonstrated the deep adoration and pride he had for each member of his family (as well as all who were a part of his cadre!) Warren will be winking, watching & guiding all of us from the good seats above. We love you Warren - Dad - Poppi - Mac. Our heartfelt thanks and hugs to our “team” at VNA/Hospice of Vernon Ct. A memorial service/celebration of Warren’s life will be held in May. All relatives and friends will be informed when a specific date is set. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in his honor to the Tolland Food Bank (c/o Tolland Senior Center) and Wounded Warrior Project.