CDR John Francis McColgan

CDR John Francis McColgan, US Navy, Retired, 84, formerly of Hertford, NC, died Wednesday, June 17, 2015 in SECU Hospice House of Brunswick, Bolivia, NC. Mr. McColgan was born in Boston, MA on October 6, 1930, and was the son of the late Robert and Grace McDermott McColgan. Retired as a Commander from the US Navy after 30 years of service, he was a decorated Vietnam veteran having received numerous medals for his valor and distinguished service. Following his military career, he opened his own business, GINMAC Windows and Storm Doors, which he operated for 20 years. A member of Holy Family Catholic Church where he had served as a lay minister, he had been active in the Knights of Columbus and the Order of the Alhambra, Padul Caravan #69 where he had served as the Supreme Commander in 1987. He had also been very involved with the Special Olympians. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Virginia Greer "Ginni" McColgan; three brothers, James, Robert, and Edward McColgan; and by his step-daughter, Valerie Jackson. Surviving are his wife of 13 years, Blanche Valborg Andersen McColgan; a son Michael McColgan and wife Deborah of Chesapeake, VA; and two sisters, Grace and Mary, both of Massachusetts. Also surviving are Blanche's children, Frank Splendorio and wife Deborah and Christie Gilbertsen and husband Ed, all of Southport, and her son-in-law, Jeff Jackson of Texas. Together John and Blanche shared seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. A Mass of Resurrection will be held Tuesday, June 23, 2015 at 3:00 p.m. in Holy Family Catholic Church. Military honors will be accorded on the church grounds. Friends may join the family in the parish hall immediately following the service. Miller & Van Essendelft, Funeral and Cremation Providers, 1125 Harvey Point Road, Hertford, is assisting the family with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Holy Family Catholic Church, 1453 North Road St., Elizabeth City, NC 27909. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.