John William Michael Mahaney passed away peacefully on August 7, 2024 in Land O’ Lakes, Florida.
John was born in Riverdale, Maryland, the beloved son of John and Louise Mahaney.
John attended DeMatha High School before joining the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, D.C., as a cadet. His dedication and bravery were quickly recognized, earning him many commendations. Throughout his distinguished 23 + year career, he served in several key roles, including being one of the youngest detectives in the Intelligence Division.
His final and perhaps most impactful role was with the Special Operations Division Harbor Unit, where he served as a Rescue Diver and Instructor for boat operations. During his time with the Harbor Unit, John performed over 40 emergency dives, including 14 solo missions.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, John continued to serve his community in Benedict, Maryland, running Gold Coast Charters from Benedict and Breezy Point, Maryland in his fishing boat “WHY BE NORMAL.” He also founded TowBoatU.S. Cobb Island, with his son-in-law, Chappie.
Later, upon retiring to Florida with the love of his life Patricia, John founded and operated a data recovery business.
John’s sharp and mischievous wit, straightforward honesty, logical approach to life, and willingness to help others will be deeply missed. A hero to many, John loved life and his family.
John was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Patricia, his daughters Julie (Chappie) and Tracy (Kelly), and his son Patrick. John was a proud father and a grandfather to four grandchildren, Joey, Luke (Alyssa), Nick (Savannah), and Mackenzie, and was further blessed with six great-grandchildren: Katarina, Wyatt, Roman, Paisleigh, Delaney, and Levi.
A private service will be held by the family.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation. (Visit t2t.org or call (718) 987-1931 to donate) – or any charity of your choice – in honor of John Mahaney.
Ging
August 10, 2024, 7:55 pm
My heartfelt condolences to Patricia and the family. John will be missed, and reading this I learned so much more about this clever and wonderful man.
Rest in peace John, you have given much love and caring to your family and fellow officers.
Joe Cousins
August 10, 2024, 8:19 pm
Thinking about the time you and John spent together, Patricia, it’s clear that you two built something beautiful and lasting. The love, laughs, and the joy you created together are treasures that will never fade or be forgotten. Sincere condolences.
RIP John.
Russ Raymond
August 10, 2024, 8:49 pm
Greg and I met John in 2001 in Calgary Alberta Canada.
I admired his calm demeanour and yet he could still share a strong opinion on certain topics.
We shared some backyard barbecue gatherings at Patricia’s house in Calgary where John was usually in front of the barbecue cookin’
John built her back deck that year.
It was nice to see the love blossoming between them.
Later years we travelled down South to visit them.
John’s accomplishments in life gives us comfort that he lived a fore filling life.
Russ Raymond
Dorothy Loy
August 11, 2024, 4:13 pm
My dear cousin!!!
Thinking of you and John’s family as you go through this time.
Hugs
Margaret Metz
August 11, 2024, 5:46 pm
Margaret ( Maggie Metz )
The first time I met John in Williams Lake, Canada, I knew he was a great man.
Pat and John were so close in love.
My memories will be the tears of laughter we shared in conversations.
Love you and we will take care of Pat.
Have an Irish Bushmells with my Irish Dad and husband Randy. Miss you buddy!
Maggie (Patricia’s sister)
Angus and Leanne Desmond-Coster
August 11, 2024, 6:01 pm
So sorry to hear about John.
We send our most heartfelt sympathy to you Patricia and the family. We wish you strength, peace and comfort during this challenging time. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Live, Angus and Leanne
Michael Matzner,Rees,Duskin,Wendy
August 11, 2024, 9:20 pm
Our condolences to you Patricia sorry we’re so far away. I’m not a very good person that keeps up keeps up on my emails. I just never really think of it yet. Still in the old timers. Hope you’re all good. We’re doing OK here. What are these days? I’m gonna get down there if you’re still gonna continue to live in the states there and visit Might even come down this winter yet possibly . Your cousin Michael
Bill Sorber
August 12, 2024, 12:41 am
It truley breaks my heart to lose John he was one of the true friends I had left. We had some good long talks out fishing and in his house in Benedict. We talked about our past lives and what the future holds. My prayers go up for Patricia and the kids. For John, he’s doing just fine probably trying to catch the whale that ate Jonah. Hang in there Patricia we will see him again.
Terry Desmond
August 12, 2024, 3:25 pm
My sympathy and condolences to Patricia and the family. I’m deeply sorry for your loss and my heart goes out to you and I wish you nothing but comfort and strength.
Terry & Family
Dennis Hance
August 13, 2024, 8:51 pm
The first thing I would like to say is that John was my friend
I first met John in 1980 we worked together in the Traffic Division for MPD we separated after six years and were once again working together at Harbor
John was a one of a kind police officer he was dedicated to his work and family without exception
He was always someone that could be counted on without exception
He was from the old school and I will miss my friend
Rest in Peace
John O'Connor
August 16, 2024, 4:02 pm
John worked in the MPDC Intelligence Division in the early 1970’s. At that time i was strictly undercover and working covertly in Washington during the mass demonstrations. When i checked in at the office as agent 36 quite a bit of the time i would talk to John. He was the best and really helped me with his common sense and understanding of our mission. I honestly don’t believe i could have done my job without his help. Over the years we kept in contact and remained friends. I have great respect for John as a friend and colleague. My sympathy to his wife and family. John thanks for everything and Rest in Peace after a life well lived. jj