James Patton McCormick

1951 ~ 2024


James Patton McCormick passed away Thursday, June 13, 2024, in his office at the helm of Hydro Engineering, Inc., in Salt Lake City, Utah. His loss was sudden, but he was surrounded by his Hydro family, in a place that he cherished, where his creativity flowed.

He was a beloved husband, father, and brother. He poured his heart and mind into the business that he and his brother forged together. He cared deeply about his employees and loved ones. The impacts of his presence resonate deeply within countless individuals whose lives he touched.

Jim was born on February 10, 1951, in Chicago, Illinois. He is preceded in death by his parents, Alan Gordon McCormick and Marcia Francis McCormick (Bruckler). He is survived by his wife, Karen McCormick (Johnson); daughter, Meghan McCormick; brother, Alan McCormick and his wife Erika (Vekter); nephew Sean McCormick and his wife Kelli and their children Charly and Wells.

Jim loved golf and played each week in summer with his brother and friends from Hydro Engineering. He looked forward to his golf each week. When his father-in-law, Ralph Johnson, was alive, Jim would play in the early mornings at Meadow Brook GC with Ralph and Karen. He loved fast cars, 4-wheeling, romantic comedies, cold beer and spending time with the people he enjoyed most.

Jim’s idea of fishing was to watch his family fish while he sat in the shade with a book and a beer. Jim did enjoy road trips and those were his favorite vacations, his favorite places being Yellowstone in the fall, Montana & Wyoming anytime, and Southeastern Utah in the spring and fall. In the youthful years, it was camping but in later years a motel was appreciated.

The celebration of Jim’s life will be held between 6 to 8 pm this Friday, June 21, at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 East Dimple Dell Road (10600 South), Sandy, UT, 84092. We look forward to hearing memories and stories about Jim as he wished for a celebration rather than a funeral. Per his wishes, Jim will be cremated and his ashes spread on a last road trip with his beloved family and dogs.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, please make a contribution to your favorite charity in Jim’s honor.



Guestbook/Condolences

My thoughts and prayers are with y'all I am so sorry for your loss. (John 11:25) Jesus said to her: “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who exercises faith in me, even though he dies, will come to life."


- Agustín Madrigal

I was shocked when Dorothy contacted me. I have so many fond memories of Jim. His laugh comes to mind first alone with his smile. He always loved a good joke and throughly enjoyed giving someone a good ribbing.
Working with him was always a pleasure.


- Cheryl Marzec, Marzec and Assoc

My favorite employer in my life has certainly been Hydro Engineering, and the chance I've had to work closely with Jim made coming to work each day something I looked forward to. The rough exterior he worked hard to show definitely covered a kind, good, and compassionate heart. I will always be happy to have known him. Thanks Jim.


- Bill Hall

Dear Karen & Family,
I’m sending our heartfelt condolences to you , Meghan, & extended family from my family & from our mom, Cecelia, & late father, William Lopez. We were deeply saddened to hear of Jim’s passing! As family of Richard Lopez, we got to know Jim, his beautiful obituary mentioned how he cared for his employees and their families , I attest to that and we , truly, felt his genuine care! My mom made it a point to see him a few weeks back when we stopped by to see Richard and she will cherish that visit! Jim was a good man and we want you to know we appreciated his kindness and his friendship! God bless you all! Love, the Lopez & Jackson Families! 🩷✝️🙏🏽🕊️


- Pat Jackson

Such a Loss - Totally unexpected - We at Hydro will truly Miss Jim - He did so much for so many of us.


- Henry Ebell

Sorry for your lose.


- Bill Zadra