Dr. Kevin J. Riordan, MD – a role model, devoted family man, and loving soul – was lost unexpectedly at the age of 70. He was born in Manhattan, NY to the late Mary T. Murphy and William Riordan. Kevin is survived by his wife Joanna Maciocha Riordan and daughter Alexandria Riordan, with his son Thomas Riordan preceding his death at 12 months of age. He is also survived by his five siblings; William, Debra and her husband Mark Switzer, John and wife Debbie, Michael and his wife Joan, Bernadette and husband Brad Fetrow, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Kevin valued education and was a prolific learner, living by his own maxims of “never stop learning” and “you gotta stay sharp.” A graduate of Trinity Catholic High School in Camp Hill, PA, he went on to pursue multiple degrees of higher education, ultimately finding his passion in medicine where he would spend more than 40 years working as a Physician Assistant, Family Medicine Doctor, and Emergency Physician. Being a proud Irishman at heart, with a mentality bound by no limits, he even went on to obtain an international license to practice medicine in Ireland. He continued to “stay sharp” until his last days; he kept learning, kept up to date on advancements in medicine, and committed any spare time to studying/swapping tricks of the trade with his daughter in his continuous effort to support her ventures in nursing.
Outside of the love of medicine and his immediate family, Kevin was a mentor, teacher, and role model to any of those lucky enough to know him. He was an encyclopedia of wise quotes and practical advice. He thrived on being Mr. Fix-It, always getting his hands on a new project around the house, whether it involved plumbing, electrical work, landscaping, or construction.
Kevin adored all sports and being active. To unwind, he relished watching a Phillies or Yankees game, the 76ers, any NFL/college game that was on TV, and the occasional boxing match. Despite his preference for more masculine sports, however, he developed a shared passion for figure skating with his daughter and came to spend more time supporting her athletic endeavors as a part-time coach and full-time cheerleader. Ultimately, his favorite times were spent with his loved ones regardless of the activity; going to baseball games, trips down the shore, skiing in Colorado, watching his nephew’s basketball games, gathering at grandma’s for holidays, and sports-movie nights at home.
When asking close ones their final impressions of him, Kevin’s character shines bright through their words: wise, patient, altruist, role model, renaissance man, hero, the “cool” uncle, best friend, a kid at heart, and the greatest dad ever. If you ever had a medical question or needed help with anything, Kevin was there. He had a profound knack of making those around him feel the love and unconditional support he had to offer. He left a large footprint and his absence will be felt greatly. He will be missed dearly.
Please join the Riordan family on Monday July 12th 2021 at Saint Andrew Catholic Church, 81 Swamp Road Newtown, PA 18940. A visitation for Kevin will be held from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, with his funeral Mass beginning at 11:00 AM.
