Dermot James Lonergan
March 10th, 2021
Dermot James Lonergan left us too soon on March 10, 2021 at the age of 71. Dermot was born in Dublin, Ireland. His parents, Jimmy and Teresa brought Dermot and 3 younger siblings to Canada in 1957, where two younger sisters were born. He married Pam (Moseley) in 1974, was the beloved father of Michelle and Gavin and the adored grandfather of Shelby (Nick), Dermot, and Davis. He leaves his five siblings (Sean, Geraldine, Brian, Bernadette, and Kathryn), sister-in-law Melanie (Philip), mother-in-law, Eileen and many nieces and nephews.
Dermot began his career at Whyte-Hooke Papers in Mississauga, and then moved to British Columbia in 1988, where he worked for NEDCO.
He was always the “cool” guy. Ever the 60’s rebel, he was a bass-player in several rock bands, reluctant to cut his hair or accept unreasonable authority. He loved music, road trips, exploring BC, vintage watches, the Keg, french fries, and his Tesla. In retirement, he and Pam enjoyed day-tripping in search of collectible treasures and good french fries.
Pam was the centre of his love for family, beloved and unwavering for 47 years. Family events and gatherings with both of their families were always the priority, often with Dermot at the BBQ making his favourite steak and burgers. Dermot and Pam made many trips with the extended Lonergan clan, including a pilgrimage to Ireland after his mother’s death. We are all so grateful for those irreplaceable moments.
Due to CoVID restrictions, a small graveside ceremony will be held but it will be live-streamed for others to share. Heartfelt thanks to the caregivers at Langley Memorial Hospital and all those who supported Dermot’s health these past years. If desired, donations in Dermot’s memory may be made to the Salvation Army Gateway of Hope (Langley, BC or the Langley Memorial Hospital.
You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence for the family.
Messages:
My sincere condolences to you all. Pam I believe we worked together at PBSC? If so, please email me as I’d love to go for a coffee or something xo
Dermot my friend, Heaven wouldn't be Heaven without music and I hope to rock with you again when the time comes. So many miss you down here, you were one of the best that there is and you leave a rare legacy of spirit and personality. You are well loved.
My sincere and deepest condolences to Pam, and all of the family on Dermot's passing. I was hired by Dermot in 2011, March, at Nedco and worked with Dermot for 10 years. Dermot gave me alot of opportunity for growth in my career at Nedco, advancement and the pleasure of working together with him. He always had wise words. He was a great poker player as well, as I remember lasting the Poker Tournament until 4 a.m. when Dermot decided to end the game and split the winnings. That's who he was. I will not forget Dermot Lonergan, his stories, and his wise words. May you rest in peace Dermot, thankyou for being a part in my life. You will be missed by many.
Pam and family, my deepest condolences on the loss of your beloved Dermot. He was such a kind soul and one of my favourite bosses. He was always so good to me and our procurement team at Nedco. I’ll always remember his fondness for watches. Rest In Peace dear Dermot.
The Lonergans lived around the corner from me and I used to help him with his paper route as his junior apprentice. He liked to eat peanuts while I would chuck the papers which prepared me well for my stint at the Globe and Mail. We jammed together a few times and he introduced me to bands like the Yardbirds and the blues. Blind Owl will be well remembered as a gentle soul.
We will always remember Dermot back here in Ontario. In the 80’s, we jammed at Dermot and Pam’s. When they were moving, Dermot used his wheeling and dealing skills to set us up with a PA system, drum machine and mikes. We were able to keep playing, which we still do to this day, Covid permitting. We think of him often, fondly.
So sad to read of Dermot's passing in the Star today. He is fondly remembered as a friend and mentor at Inter City Papers where we worked together in the 80's-90's. Passionate about the speciality papers and unique offerings that made the company prosper. Especially focused on the Suppliers cornerstone of the Four Square Philosophy that guided us all. Good to read he enjoyed some of a too brief retirement. RIP my friend, Mike
Dermot was the Base player of my band ZardoZ during the 80’s until he suddenly left the band and moved out to BC. Enjoyed his humour at times with fond memories of the band playing gigs around the Hamilton / Burlington area’s. Our guitar player Dennis sadly passed away Nov 2023.