John Rolfe “Jack” McMahon, Sr.

John Rolfe “Jack” McMahon, Sr., age 88, passed away on January 13, 2026, at his home in West Jordan, Utah, peacefully surrounded by his family. He was born on September 19, 1937, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Rolfe Quincy (Ace) McMahon and Delores Anna Eccles.

Jack was married to Karene H. Kilgrow on October 28, 1956, and together they had seven children; they later divorced. He later married Patricia Ann Johnston on December 4, 1981, gaining four bonus children through marriage, and together they later welcomed three more, expanding their already full and lively family.

Jack was the proud patriarch of a large and loving family. He is survived by his wife, Pat; his children John (Kathy) McMahon, Laurie Lee, Leslie (Mark) Bundy, Ken McMahon, Kari Mendoza, Joe (Melanie) McMahon, Tony (Mindy) McMahon, Tasha (Sam) McMahon, and Tangee McMahon; along with his bonus children Tammy (Rob) Timpe, Tina (Ryan) Brinkley, and Tiffany (Cody) Shaffer; his brother, Douglas Michael (Judy) McMahon; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

Jack lived a life defined by hard work, determination, and an unwavering commitment to providing for his family. A true jack-of-all-trades, he believed in rolling up his sleeves and getting things done—often reminding those around him to “quit standing around and get to work.” That work ethic was something he carried throughout his life and passed down to generations who learned by watching him lead through action.

Among his many cherished relationships, Jack shared an extraordinary bond with his grandson Camden. From a young age, Camden was his constant companion—his buddy—going everywhere with him and creating memories that will live on in the hearts of those who witnessed their connection.

In his final months, Jack was lovingly cared for by his wife, Patricia, whose devotion, strength, and unwavering presence were a comfort to him and a source of deep gratitude to his family. Her care allowed him to remain at home, surrounded by love, dignity, and peace.

Over the years, Jack worked in many trades and industries, leaving his mark wherever he went. His work included Ajax Press, Bountiful Motors, Victor Construction (Star Steel Buildings), Alley Cat Construction, Reams, Perry Homes, Pentalon, Astro Steel, and many others. He also took great pride in helping build Stone Ridge in Blanchard, Idaho; the Colonial Ford building; Ultimate Electronics; and the resort in Pinetop, Arizona. No job was too big, too small, or beneath him—he simply believed in honest work.

Outside of work, Jack enjoyed cars and his daily routines, including time spent over coffee with friends and family at the Village Inn. He was steady, stubborn in the best way, and deeply devoted to his family.

Jack’s legacy lives on through his remarkable posterity: 55 grandchildren, 135 great-grandchildren, and 21 great-great-grandchildren, with four more on the way. His family was his greatest accomplishment, and his influence will be felt for generations.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Jaque Ann Pauly; his brothers, Timothy McMahon and Robert McMahon; his sister, Ann; his sons-in-law, Clayton (Hoss) Lee, Roy Mendoza, and Bruce Pauly; his bonus son, Tracy Warren; his granddaughter, Tabitha Ann Pauly; and his great-grandchildren Draegon Kurt McMahon, Taycen Birch, and Jacob Kyle Hopkins.

He showed up, did the work, took care of his family, and left this world better than he found it. Though he will be deeply missed, the love, lessons, and memories he leaves behind will live on through those who knew him best.

And now, as Jack would say:

GET TO WORK! WHAT ARE YOU STANDING AROUND FOR?

Evening viewing will be held at Memorial Redwood Mortuary, 6500 South Redwood Road, West Jordan, Utah, on January 28th from 6:00–8:00 PM. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.