James Robert Michael "Mike" McCormick

James Robert Michael “Mike” McCormick

February 14, 2021

James Robert Michael “Mike” McCormick passed away peacefully on Sunday February 14th 2021 at the Hospice of Sacred Heart on Valentine’s Day.  He was surrounded by his children and beloved wife, Lilly Barone McCormick.

He was born on August 12th, 1938 in Olyphant PA to James Robert and Marguerite Simpson McCormick.  He was a graduate of Archbald High School and a proud US Army veteran.  While most of his working years were spent at the Lackawanna County Sheriff’s office and COLTS, his post retirement years were spent driving for Head Start where his kids fondly called him “Mr. Mike”.

His obsession for football was a family affair whether you liked the sport or not.  Rarely did you ever see him in anything other than Penn State, New York Giants or Valley View Cougars apparel.  To this day, he remains “Coach” for the many players he coached and guided in his 20+ years with the Archbald Falcons and Rams football programs.  You could always find Mike at Valley View stadium proudly watching his favorite Cougars; sons Jim and Mark and grandsons Zack and Jake.

He is survived by his beloved wife Lilly.  They shared 58 years of marriage, and together, experienced all the joys and sorrows which a union for a lifetime can bring.  Her void will be forever unfilled.

His zest for live will be forever missed by his four children; Lisa Osborne, Jermyn PA, Shelly Atkinson and her partner Chris Hunt, Archbald PA, James McCormick and daughter-in-law Dina, London UK and Mark McCormick and daughter-in-law Amanda, Toronto Canada.

For the past 28 years, his greatest joy was watching his 9 grandchildren; Matt, Torre, Zack, Dylan, Jake, Ranen, Gideon, Ethan and Conor, through their varied life journeys.  He was their confidant, critic, cheerleader, coach, mentor and playmate but mainly, he was their Papa and they unconditionally adored him.

He is also survived by his sister Mary Lou Rovinsky, brother-in-law Bill, niece Susie and nephews Bill and Bob.  He loved his sister deeply for she played a pivotal role in his upbringing. 

While an empty chair will remain at the table for family celebrations, the pool and beach on family vacations, the McCormick family will proudly carry on the traditions instilled by their husband, dad and papa; laugh a lot, never miss an opportunity for a spirited debate, sing and dance like you own the stage and never root for the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame. 

Due to COVID conditions, presently, the family will hold a memorial mass on Saturday March 6th at,10 AM, at Christ the King Church, Archbald PA.  The family will greet friends beginning at 9:30AM in advance of the mass.  In lieu of flowers, contribution can be made to the Hospice of Sacred Heart, 100 Williams St. Dunmore PA 18510.

At a later date, his family will host a proper celebration of Mike’s life in typical McCormick fashion.

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