John C. McPherson, of Furlong, PA died on Wednesday, January 23, 2013, at St. Mary Medical Center. He was 85.

He was the beloved husband of 61 years to Kathryn P. (Janice) McPherson.

Born in Philadelphia, PA, he was the son of the late Clarence D. and Elizabeth A. (Regan) McPherson.

John grew up on Duffield Street in Philadelphia and graduated from Northeast Catholic. He attended Villanova University and earned an associate’s degree in engineering. Early in his career he was the Hydraulics Engineer for Eaton Yale and Towne in Philadelphia, Pa. then later was promoted to Engineering Manager in Flemington, NJ. He retired in 1984 with 30+ years of service. He went on to establish Diversified Technical Service, a consulting firm, where he served as President.

John had a long and distinguished career including being awarded many US patents for his inventions. He was especially honored to serve the National Fluid Power Society as President bringing with him his expertise in hydraulics.

His talents though were not limited to engineering. He loved the water and especially enjoyed spending summers on Long Beach Island, NJ. Although principally a sailor, it did not matter if his vessel was powered by wind or engine he was accomplished behind any helm. He was also well skilled in rigging, knots, and radio communications including Morse code as well as knowledge of vessel construction. In his early years he built several boats from the keel-up including his favorite “Lightning” sailboat, #2385. John’s extensive skills, talents and disciplines will long be remembered and appreciated by his loving family and friends.

In addition to his beloved wife, John is survived by his 4 sons; John and Lynne McPherson of Perkasie, Gary and Lori McPherson of Wrightstown, Mark McPherson of Warrington, Glenn and Cathy McPherson of Beach Haven, NJ. He is also survived by his 6 grandchildren: Melissa, Stefanie, Christine, Jason, Kimberly, and Adam and his 2 great-grandchildren: Ethan and Natalie.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his viewing, Monday, January 28, 2013 from 9:30 am until his Funeral Service 11:00 am at the Joseph A. Fluehr III Funeral Home, 800 Newtown Richboro Road, (at Holland Rd) Richboro, PA 18954.

His interment will follow at Our Lady of Grace Cemetery, Langhorne.

If desired, contributions in his memory may be made to a charity benefiting Parkinson's or Alzheimer's Research.