Kevin J. McAloon, a renowned engineer and passionate outdoorsman, passed away on September 16, 2025, at the age of 89. Born in Chicago, Illinois, to John H. McAloon and Eileen A. O’Sullivan McAloon, he lived a life marked by professional achievement and a deep love for adventure.
After completing grammar school at Notre Dame Academy in Watsonville, California, and high school at St. Ignatius High School in Chicago, McAloon served two years in the U.S. Army. He later pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Detroit and a Master’s degree from the University of Southern California in Los Angeles.
McAloon dedicated over 30 years to the aerospace industry, contributing to significant advancements during his tenure at major companies such as Douglas Aircraft and Northrop. He notably spent 23 years at TRW before retiring in 1992. Following his retirement, he continued to lend his expertise as a part-time consultant at both TRW and Northrop Grumman for an additional nine years.
Beyond his successful career, McAloon was an avid motorcyclist, relishing both dirt and street riding. He cherished taking local and cross-country trips with his children, creating lasting memories along the way. His enthusiasm for fitness extended to running, where he completed four marathons—three alongside his son—and numerous 10K races. After transitioning from running, he found joy in cycling, particularly on the scenic trails of the Palos Verdes peninsula and the agricultural roads of the Sacramento valley, where he developed a fascination with farming technology.
Kevin is survived by his four children, including Karen, and two grandchildren, Jack and Madeleine. He also leaves behind four nieces and nephews: Jack, Maureen, Jim, and Kathy. His family reflects on his life, noting, “He will be missed. His wit, his charm, his kindness, his deep love of salt, his Irish humour. May the wind always be at your back.”
In remembering Kevin J. McAloon, those who knew him celebrate a life well-lived, marked by adventure, dedication to his profession, and profound love for his family.
