J. Joseph “Joe” McQuillan
September 7, 1946 – September 9, 2024
Joe McQuillan was born on September 7, 1946, and died on September 9, 2024, surrounded by his wife and three beloved children. Joe attended St. Cecilia grade and high school in Hastings, Nebraska graduating in 1964. He attended Creighton undergrad and Creighton Law School graduating in 1970.
Joe and Mary Kay were married June 6, 1970, at St. James Catholic Church, and Joe left the 1st of July for his two-year stint in the army, assigned to the Judge Advocate General Corps. stationed at Fort Ord, California.
After returning to Omaha in 1972, Joe entered private practice focusing on criminal defense, civil litigation and insurance defense.
Joe was highly regarded as one of Omaha’s finest trial lawyers. He was admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court, District Court of Nebraska, and State Courts in Iowa and Nebraska.
Joe was also well known for his civic duties: serving as the Omaha Personnel Board Chairman and member, St. Robert Bellarmine Parish Council President, and St. Robert’s Soccer Club President.
Joe enjoyed participating in activities with his family including soccer, water skiing, golf, and school related activities. He was an avid Creighton fan, being a season ticket holder for more than 50 years.
Preceded in death by parents, John and Marian McQuillan, sister, Michel Knorr.
Survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Mary Kay; adored children, Matthew McQuillan (Kerry), Laura Nash (Rick), Kelly Alvarado (Tim); and the absolute joy of his life, his three grandchildren, Nico Nash, Isabel and Killian Alvarado. Also survived by brother Tim and sister Colleen, as well as many nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.
He will be greatly missed by his family and many friends.
Vigil Service: Monday, September 16th, 7PM at St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church with visitation starting at 6PM.
Mass of Christian Burial: Tuesday, September 17th, 10:30AM at St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church.
Private Interment: Omaha National Cemetery.
Memorials are suggested to Creighton University Athletic Department, Fr. Donald Shane Educational Endowment Fund, Monsignor Kerwin Endowment Fund or MSForward.
Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler, West Center Chapel, 7805 West Center Road, Omaha, Ne 68124. (402)-391-3900. www.heafeyheafey.com
7 Comments
Marty Kay and family: my thoughts and prayers are with you for the loss of Joe. So many great memories of a unique guy. Mary Kay my last memory was of or great conversation reliving old times we shared at the 50 year CU reunion several years ago
You are in my prayers
Larry
Marty Kay and family: my thoughts and prayers are with you for the loss of Joe. So many great memories of a unique guy. Mary Kay my last memory was of or great conversation reliving old times we shared at the 50 year CU reunion several years ago
Larry
I knew Joe professionally for 40+ years. Great lawyer,. Great person. Handled his wins and losses with class. His way of practicing law embodied what a lawyer should be.
Sincere sympathy to your family Mary Kay as you celebrate the joy and love of your life over these 54 years!
So sorry for your loss Mrs McQuillan Matthew, Laura and Kelly and family. Remember feeling special that my favorite Math teacher husband went to college with my parents. Back at st Joan. Thinking of you all. Take care Maureen Cavanaugh
Sorry for your loss Mrs McQuillan. Our whole family is thinking of you and sending our best.
Mary Kay, I am so sorry for your loss. Joe was such a good man and I thoroughly enjoyed taking care of him and our conversations. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Sign Guestbook