William F. McGrath Sr.
Calling Hours
Service Event Information
Interment
William F. McGrath Sr., (Bill)
Newark---Passed peacefully surrounded by his family Dec. 31. Born in Rochester, NY, Dec. 19, 1929 to Louis G. and Anna E. McGrath.
Bill was a combat Army Veteran of the Korean War, was a member the VFW and the American Legion and was proud to be a part of Honor Flight. He was a faithful Roman Catholic, a dedicated Cursillista, and a member of the Knights of Columbus. He was a dedicated provider who was proud of his family and supported them in their many and diverse endeavors. We are grateful for his fidelity and dedication to us all.
Predeceased by: his daughter, Colleen Theresa; sisters, Alice L. (Ed McNiel, Joe Aliano), Ann M. Lockwood (Donald); brothers, Robert L. and Charles B. (Kay) McGrath. Bill is survived by his 9 surviving children: Margaret “Peggy” (Chuck) Abell, Gregory (Rene), Rev. William F “Mickey” McGrath Jr, Sean (Elizabeth), Daniel (Tracy), Eireann (Michael) Wells, Michael (Heather) McGrath, Devin and Jeremiah.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Mary Kay (White), his sister-in-law, Dolores, brother-in-law, Paul; 21 grandchildren: Bobbie Anne Abson; Noah and Ethan Beers; Jonah, Emma and Colleen McGrath; Breanne and Madison McGrath; Joseph, Helena, John, Michael, Lily, Anna and Maria McGrath; Cassidy and Abigail McGrath; Maegan, Brendan, Jacob and Audrey Wells; and step-granddaughter, Daya Simpson and many nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Parish, 124 Evergreen St., Rochester, NY 14605.
Calling hours will be in St. Francis Church in Phelps, NY. Friday, Jan. 8, from 4:00-7:00 PM. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial, St. Francis Church, Phelps, NY, Sat. Jan. 9 at 10:00 AM. Private reception. Face masks will be required.
Remembrances
In 1999, I attended the Diaconal ordination of Father Mickey in Rome, conferred by Cardinal Ratzinger, later Pope Benedict XVI. A day earlier, while crossing Saint Peter's Square, I heard a familiar voice. It was Bill McGrath pontificating as usual amidst his family. It was interesting to find him in the midst of thousands of people. Bill and Mary Kay and I had many good times at St. Michael's in Newark. They attended my 25th anniversary dinner in 2003. God's peace to Bill and the family. Thanks for a life well lived. Father John Gagnier
I just wanted to let the family know I am thinking of you all. Your family was like my second family growing up and I hold onto alot of happy memories. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. Michele (Darbyshire) Joseph
When we making a Cursillo weekend retreat Bill and I would spend time together discussing the NYS wrestling championships. At times we had to talk each other out of breaking away from the retreat and heading out to Syracuse. We thought nobody would miss us and we could really get into watching the competition.
I believe his greatest wrestler, the one that brought him the greatest joy, the one he could never stop talking about was his son. Fr. Mickey you filled his heart with joy and put a huge smile on his face when he told me about the old days when he would watch you wrestle.
Bill and I had some great times at the various Cursillo weekends. He surely loved the Lord and his family. I will miss you brother.
Peace and blessings to Bill's family as you go through these days of mourning. 2020 was a tough year. It fugures it would take one of my favorite Currsillo brothers with it.
Ultreya Bill. Onward to your reward in heaven.
Deacon Lon Smith
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