Dermot Curran

Dermot Curran, a proud son of Galway and a longtime resident of Chicago, passed away peacefully on July 17th, 2026 at the age of 83 at Amazing Grace Senior Living.

Dermot was born in Knocknagreine, County Galway, Ireland on April 21, 1943 to Matthew and Kate Curran (nee Conneely). Dermot brought the warmth, wit, and strong work ethic of the West of Ireland with him when he crossed the Atlantic and landed in New York City to be with his two brothers, Matthew and John.

While in New York, he met the love of his life and on July 20th, 1968, he married Joan Lenihan at Our Lady of Refuge Church in the Bronx. Soon after their marriage, Dermot and his new wife decided to move to Chicago, where for over 25 years, he kept the wheels of the city turning as a dedicated truck mechanic for Holsum Bread. A master of his craft, he took immense pride in his work, ensuring the delivery fleet was always running smoothly to get the daily bread to neighborhoods across Chicago.

Dermot was a man of simple pleasures. Whether he was sharing a laugh with neighbors and friends, listening to Irish music, discussing his beloved Cubs and Bears, or keeping up with family, his easy going personality left an indelible mark on everyone he met.

Dermot is survived by his sister Bridie, many nieces, nephews, family, friends, and loved ones who will miss him deeply.

Dermot is now reunited in heaven with his recently deceased wife, Joan with whom he was married to for 57 years, and those who preceded him in death: his parents Matthew and Kate, his sister Julia, and his brothers Charlie, John, and Matthew and many other beloved family and friends.

As Dermot makes his final journey, we find comfort in the words of a traditional Irish blessing from Galway:

O Lord, your ocean is so great and my boat is so small. 

Guide me safely over the deep, and bring me to the quiet

harbor where my soul may find eternal rest.

Visitation for Dermot will take place on Tuesday, August 18th 2026 from 9:30 am until time of Funeral Mass at 10:00 am At St. Monica Church 5136 N Nottingham Ave, Chicago, IL 60656. Interment will be private.