News Summary
Albert Charles “Mac” McNamara, Jr. of San Antonio has passed away on his 87th birthday, just hours before the birth of his first great-grandchild. Renowned for his intelligence and dedication, Mac’s life was marked by academic and professional achievements, family values, and a love for the arts. He is survived by his children and grandchildren, who gather to celebrate his legacy.
San Antonio, Texas – Albert Charles “Mac” McNamara, Jr. passed away on July 11, 2025, his 87th birthday. His death occurred just hours before the birth of his first great-grandchild, Townes Thomas Maloy. This poignant coincidence marks a significant moment for the family, who gathered to remember his legacy while welcoming a new generation.
Born in Bogalusa, Louisiana, Mac maintained his regional accent throughout his life. Renowned for his remarkable intellect, problem-solving skills, and deep appreciation for the fine arts, Mac’s early academic achievements included becoming an Eagle Scout and a National Merit Scholar. His formative experiences at Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico were impactful, often highlighted in his reflections.
Mac pursued higher education at Rice University in Houston, where he earned both a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering degree. It was at Rice that he met his future wife, native Houstonian Sandra Mandell, with whom he shared a lasting marriage. Their family grew to include three children: daughter Audrey Claire and sons Albert Charles McNamara, III, and Andrew Christopher McNamara.
Mac began his professional journey at Wide-Lite Corporation, a manufacturer of lighting and electronic controls in Houston. Over the course of 24 years, he climbed the ranks to become Executive Vice President. Continuing his education, he earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of Texas’s Executive MBA program, graduating at the top of his class and receiving the prestigious George Kozmetsky Award.
A significant career shift took him to Deephaven, Minnesota, where he served as Vice President of Manufacturing and Vice President of Engineering and Product Development at Sterner Lighting Systems for six years. Returning once more to Texas, the family settled in San Antonio to be closer to Audrey and her growing family. He then transitioned into the restaurant equipment industry, taking on the role of Director of Engineering and Manufacturing at Ultrafryer Systems, a commercial fryer manufacturer.
Throughout his career, Mac was a prolific inventor, securing multiple patents in electronic controls, lighting components, and fryer components. He had a passion for travel, often taking family camping trips to attend Illuminating Engineering Society meetings nationwide. In his later years, Mac and Sandy traveled internationally to countries like Ireland, England, and Japan.
A devoted opera enthusiast, Mac particularly admired the compositions of Richard Wagner. He frequently attended operatic performances globally and enjoyed listening to opera at home, often sharing his passion with family and friends by singing along.
As a lifelong devout Lutheran, Mac was an active member of Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in San Antonio, serving as both an Elder and a choir member. His family expressed gratitude for the support provided by Rev. Craig Meissler during Mac’s final days. Mac lovingly cared for his wife, Sandy, who passed away on December 25, 2020, ensuring she had a peaceful end at home.
He passed away at home, surrounded by his daughter Audrey, who had been providing care during his final moments. Mac is preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Beatrice McNamara, his wife Sandy, and son Albert, III, who died from leukemia in 2013. He is survived by daughter Audrey McNamara Curl and her husband Paul, grandchildren Matthew “Mac” Curl and Anna Curl Maloy (Trevor), and great-grandson Townes Thomas Maloy, all of San Antonio. He also leaves behind Albert III’s wife Jean McNamara and their children Paige and John “Jack” McNamara of Houston, as well as son Andrew McNamara and his wife Amy from Los Angeles, California.
Services honoring Mac’s life are scheduled for July 21, 2025, at 10 a.m. at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in San Antonio, followed by a reception and interment at San Jose Burial Park. In memory of Mac, donations can be made to Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church.
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
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