John Addison McGrath

John Addison McGrath, a beloved son, brother, nephew, cousin and friend, passed away on August 24, 2025, in Dearborn, Michigan, at the age of 26. Born on September 17, 1998, in Wayne, Michigan, John lived a life full of love, adventure, and dedication to his craft.
John's early education began at St. Stephen's in New Boston from kindergarten, followed by St. Pat's in Carleton for grades 1 through 8. He continued his studies at St. Mary's Catholic Central for high school, where he developed lifelong friendships and a deep appreciation for community. Driven by a passion for hands-on work, he attended Northern Michigan University for three years before deciding to pursue a career as a carpenter. John proudly worked for Cherry Creek Construction in Marquette, where his skill and dedication left a lasting impact.
In addition to his carpentry, John was also a certified heavy equipment operator and worked part-time as a barista, where he enjoyed meeting new people and honing his craft. A true outdoorsman, John loved running, golfing, and mountain biking. He completed the grueling 48-mile "Ore to Shore" mountain bike race three times, embodying perseverance and a spirit of adventure.
John had a deep love for animals, especially his rescue dog, Buddy, who was his faithful companion for the past six years. A lifelong Lions fan, John cherished Sundays spent with friends watching football, accompanied by his culinary creations in the crockpot. His home was a testament to his independence and determination to make it on his own.
He is survived by his loving parents, Shawn and Lisa McGrath; his dearest brother, James (Ally) McGrath; and a large extended family who cherished him dearly, including his grandfathers, James McGrath and Thomas McLenon; grandparents Danny and Marie Gamber; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins, including Andrea Gamber, Barbara Gamber, Dana (Errol) Town, Michael (Cindy) McGrath, Beth McGrath, Thomas (Serene) McGrath, Patrick (Tiffany) McGrath, Amanda McLenon, Meghan McLenon, Katherine (Ed) Oles, Katie, Meghan (Ryan), Michael, Jack, Thomas, Ben, Erin, Anna, Wyatt, Luke, Adam, Tori, Joe, Nick, Natalie, Ellyse, Evan, Ellen, Brad, Deven, Colton, Caitlyn, Emily, Hailey, and Allison. John is preceded in death by his grandmothers, Dorothy McGrath and Christine Gamber-McLenon, and his uncle, Tim McGrath.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, August 28, 2025, with an instate at 10:00 AM and Mass at 11:00 AM at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Carleton, Michigan. Interment will follow at Michigan Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Monroe Humane Society, honoring John's compassion and love for animals.
John Addison McGrath will be remembered as a true and faithful friend, a lover of the great outdoors, and a devoted family member whose independent spirit and zest for life touched all who knew him. May he rest in peace.