Stephen P. McInerney

February 17, 1960 - July 18, 2020

Stephen “MAC” McInerney passed suddenly on the afternoon of Saturday July 18th 2020 in Maryland. His family, colleagues, and his many friends from around the world miss him dearly.

Stephen is survived by his former spouse Linda Fanthorpe, and his two children Daniel (24) and Nicole (22) and his brothers Brian, David and Mark McInerney and their families including his nieces and nephews Kevin (22), Connor (20), Robert “Bobby” (18) Declan (13) and Fiona (10). Stephen “MAC” McInerney was the first son born to his parents Peter and Maureen McInerney in San Francisco. That day was the beginning of many firsts for Stephen in his purposeful life. His leadership roles started early as Student Body President at McAteer High school graduating in the top of his class. His journey continued to Amherst College where he enjoyed playing rugby and soccer and earned a political science degree in 1982. Upon graduation Stephen traveled the world solo backpacking through Europe and ending up working and living on a kibbutz in Israel for six months. He was always in search of knowledge and loved experiencing different cultures and traditions. After traveling the world, Stephen felt a duty to country and made the decision to enter the Naval Flight Academy in Pensacola where he was again top of his class earning his coveted golden wings in April of 1986. As Captain McInerney, Stephen continued to distinguish himself as a valuable leader. Over a highly decorated 27 year Naval career Stephen logged over 4,900 hours and 800 carrier landings in a variety of jet and rotary wing aircraft in combat and humanitarian operations. His personal awards included the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star (2),

Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (2), Air Medal (2), Strike Flight Medal (8), Navy Commendation Medal (2) and Navy Achievement Medal (2).

Stephen was a devoted father who was very proud of his children Daniel and Nicole who both have graduated from distinguished colleges and are now pursuing their own dreams.

Stephen was the epitome of a continuous learner. He was an avid reader and his endless thirst for knowledge and new experiences gave him incredible perspective and humility. He was a man of great character, great humility, and worldly knowledge.

In recent years, when asked how we was doing, Stephen’s reply was always “I’m continuing my reign as the luckiest SOB on the planet”. We will always love him and remember him for the great light he shone upon us as he let us share his purpose driven life in this world.

A memorial service to be held on Saturday August 07, 2021, 1pm at St. Cecilia’s church – 2555 17th avenue, San Francisco. There will be celebration of his life after at the St. Francis Yacht Club at 2pm. Friends, family and past connections are welcome but please RSVP to wemissstephenMAC@ gmail.com.

A future memorial will be held in Washington DC at Arlington National Cemetery.