Richard McQuillen

Richard “Dugan” McQuillen passed away peacefully at his son’s home in Jacksonville, Fla., on Jan. 1 at the age of 81 after fighting a courageous battle with lung cancer.

Richard was born to Claire and Bernice McQuillen on  Nov. 21, 1938, in Jefferson and graduated from Jefferson High School, where he excelled in track, basketball and football. 

After marrying his high school sweetheart Sharon (Jansma), they relocated to San Diego, where they resided for 34 years. Richard worked for Solar Turbines and then transferred to Sunstrand/Turbomach, where he was a contract administrator. 

In San Diego, they raised their children Kevin Michael McQuillen and Kristen Lee McQuillen. 

Richard was known for his outgoing personality, quick wit and great sense of humor. He was great at trivia and his Thursday trivia team was named the “McDugan’s” because they all turned to him for the answers as his family did each night as they watched “Jeopardy.” 

Richard is survived by his wife, Sharon, for whom he shared an incredible marriage of nearly 60 years; his son, Kevin McQuillen, of Jacksonville; and daughter Kristen McQuillen, of Jefferson; five grandchildren and two great-grandsons; sister Barbara, of Boone; brother David (Pat), of Jefferson; and sister-in-law Sandra, of Iowa City; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Claire and Bernice; and two brothers, Daryle and Donald.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.