Kevin J. McAloon, a respected engineer and passionate outdoorsman, passed away on September 16, 2025, at the age of 89. Born in Chicago, Illinois, to parents John H. McAloon and Eileen A. O’Sullivan McAloon, Kevin’s legacy spans a fulfilling career in the aerospace industry and a life rich in adventure and family.
Education and Military Service
Kevin completed his early education at Notre Dame Academy in Watsonville, California, before graduating from St. Ignatius High School in Chicago. Following high school, he served two years in the U.S. Army, an experience that shaped his character and work ethic.
He pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Detroit and later a Master’s degree in the same field from the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, California. These qualifications laid the foundation for a distinguished career in aerospace engineering.
A Distinguished Career in Aerospace
Kevin dedicated over 30 years to the aerospace sector, working with notable companies such as Douglas Aircraft, Northrop, and ultimately spending 23 years with TRW. He retired in 1992 but continued to contribute to the field as a part-time consultant at both TRW and Northrop Grumman for nine years after his retirement.
His extensive experience and insight in electrical engineering made him a respected figure among his peers, and he was known for his innovative approaches to complex challenges in the aerospace industry.
Passions Beyond Engineering
Outside of his professional life, Kevin had a zest for adventure, particularly through motorcycle riding. He enjoyed both dirt and street biking, often taking local and cross-country trips with his children. His love for running was equally notable; he completed four marathons—three alongside his son—and participated in numerous 10K races. Following his running days, he embraced cycling, relishing bike rides on the scenic Palos Verdes peninsula and exploring the farm roads of the Sacramento Valley, where he developed a keen interest in farming technology.
Kevin is survived by his four children, including Karen, two grandchildren, Jack and Madeleine, as well as four nieces and nephews—Jack, Maureen, Jim, and Kathy. His family remembers him not just for his accomplishments, but for his wit, charm, kindness, and deep appreciation for life. As they reflect on his legacy, they express a collective sentiment: he will be dearly missed, and may the wind always be at his back.
