Surrounded by loving family, John Charles Mullarkey Jr., passed peacefully into the arms of his Lord on Sunday, June 09, 2019. John was born November 27, 1921 in Minneapolis, Minnesota as the only child to John Charles Sr. and Helen Mullarkey. John proudly served in the United States Navy during World War II protecting the Pacific Coast on the Goodyear Blimp from Japanese submarines and later serving on the USS Sitkoh Bay in the South Pacific.
He fell in love and married the true love of his life, Patricia in 1948 and would’ve celebrated 71 years of marriage with her on July 3, 2019. In 1955, John and Patricia moved their young family to Phoenix where he worked in Plating Sales for ChemResearch Co. and Talley Industries. John loved his family and taught them by example, treating others with honesty and respect. He loved to tell his children to always “do the right thing” because with a name like “Mullarkey”, people would always remember your name! He was very proud of his heritage and had the Irish gift of gab, always having a smile and story/joke to share. He was the eternal optimist and helped shape the lives of not only his children, but his grandchildren as well. He will forever remain an inspiration for future generations as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend. John was preceded in death by his two sons, Michael (age 67) and Jim (age 61). Besides his wife Patricia, John is survived by son John Mullarkey III, daughter Cathy Meyer (Ken), daughter-in-laws Mary Mullarkey and Jennifer Mullarkey, and grandchildren Kelly (Jim), Jamie, Erin, Joel, Dan, Matt (Bergen), and Michael. John is also survived by great-grandchildren Aidan, Jack, Madeline, Jamison, Cassie, Maclan (on the way), and other beloved extended family members.
A Celebration of his Life and Visitation will be held at 6:00 P.M. on Sunday, June 30, 2019 at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 A.M. on Monday, July 1, 2019 at St. Theresa Catholic Church, 5045 E. Thomas Rd. with a reception in the parish hall following interment. The family would like to thank his caregivers and request that in lieu of flowers, a donation be made to Hospice of the Valley Northeast in Scottsdale.
Jill St Croix
What an exceptional life! You leave behind a wonderful legacy.
Heartfelt sympathies for the family.
Jill and Ron
Kathy Puryear
I have so many memories of “Mr. Mullarkey” over 50 years and every single memory brings a smile. Both his and Pat’s love and friendship to my parents and family was meaningful and cherished. Along with the entire Bourque family, the Puryear family sends such love to Pat, John, my forever friend Cathy and all of their extended families.
Kathy Puryear
Susan Mullarkey and Kenneth Wild
We are deeply saddened by John’s passing but thankful to have been positively shaped by his enthusiasm for life, infectious smile, and love for his family and friends. A great man has left this earth but will forever be in our hearts. Everything seemed brighter when he was around. Although great memories of his life will live on, he will be missed by everyone who knew him. We share in your sorrow. Please accept our heartfelt condolences.
Jeano Birdoes
John:
Truly sorry to read that your Dad recently passed away. Always remember him as the father you did not want pissed at you (At least that was the consensus with JT, Kevin Pea, Paul Podborney, and everyone else.). Also, was not aware that both Mike and Jim had passed away. Getting old is just no fun. You and your entire family are in our prayers.
Molly (Fisher) Boyle
I remember John, and the whole Mullarkey family, with great fondness. Being next door neighbors for 11 years was such a blessing! Our families literally grew up together, and Mr and Mrs Mullarkey were like second parents to all us Fisher kids! God bless you, John. May you Rest In Peace.
Maggie Menzel
So sorry to hear of Mr. Mullarkey’s passing. He was the dream father as I was growing up. He was so beloved for his great sense of life and funny jokes. My heart goes out to his wife, Mrs. Mullarkey, who to me was a pioneer working mother with a wonderful design and sense of fashion, her daughter Cathy was always the prettiest and most fashionable girl around. Pat has always made me think of Sophia Loren, she is just as beautiful. God bless you and comfort you as your whole family grieves this tremendous loss.
Marc Dubach
Sad to read of John’s passing. Just as sad to read of his son Mike’s passing. Went to grade school with Mike and we also worked together at Honeywell for many years.