Robert K. McGrath

MCGRATH, ROBERT K. Robert K. McGrath, husband, father, brother, son, mentor and friend, formerly of the 32nd regiment, 7th Infantry Division, United States Army passed away on May 9, 2014. Bob is survived by his wife Pat, his sons Mike and Paul and their spouses, Nancy and Liz and their children; his sister Betty and his brothers, Dick and Burr. Bob's sons provided him with six surviving grandchildren, the lights of his life. Bob's sisters-in-law; Ruth Zuiderhoek, Arlene McGrath and Mary McGrath also survive him. Bob is preceded in death by the first love of his life, his wife Margie McGrath nee Schuhmann. A 1940 graduate of Lee High School, Bob enlisted in the army in that same year. During his service in WW II, Bob attained the rank of Technical Sergeant as a combat infantryman in the Pacific Theatre He engaged the enemy in combat in the invasions of Attu, Kwajalein, Leyte, and Okinawa. He was awarded the Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Cluster among other distinguished combat and service citations. Returning to his native Grand Rapids after his service, Bob married Margie who had waited for him while the war raged, much to his amazement. The couple was married in 1947 at Burlingame Church. Bob worked was a Lineman-in-Charge for Consumers Power Company. During his employ he was an active union member, steward and officer. He retired from Consumer's in 1983. Bob and Margie's love of singing and music lead them to join in song-fests at local establishments during the 1960s, 70s and 80s. Bob and his second wife, Pat also enjoyed singing and were married on St. Patrick's Day 2009. Bob's voice and stories will be missed by those of us who were the source of, or the audience for, them. His spirit of generosity, love of irony, easy laughter and bountiful goodwill lives on in those who knew and truly loved him. You can stand down, Sarge. The rest of us got it now. Cremation has taken place Service will be June 21st, at Ofield Funeral home at 4500 Kalamazoo Ave, Kentwood, MI, visitation at noon, service at 1pm, Margot Ruede officiating, Followed by an Irish celebration of life! Memorial contributions to any Veterans charities, suggested in lieu of flowers. Online condolences may be left at www.ofieldfuneralhome.com