John Miller McGrath

John Miller McGrath was born June 16, 1932, in Los Angeles, California, to Doris Miller and John C. McGrath.
He grew up in San Francisco, raised by his mother during his early years, until the great depression took such a financial toll that she had no choice but to place him and his older sister into foster care. John, his sister, and his mother would visit with each other often, and eventually he and his sister were able to return home to live with their mother. His foster dad had 16 hunting dogs, but Mike was John's favorite, and Mike never let little Johnny out of his sight. John loved telling the story of how his foster dad worked at San Quentin prison, and during the Christmas season, his foster dad was San Quentin's very own real-life Santa Claus. Because of this, whenever "little Johnny" went to work with his dad, everyone treated him like royalty. He spent much of his childhood as an adventurous young boy, exploring the grounds of San Quentin with his 22 rifle at his side. The tower guards kept a mindful eye on him, making sure to know where little Johnny was at all times.
At the age of 18, John enlisted with the United States Marine Corps in order to be able to provide for his mother and sister. Shortly after joining the Marine Corps, he found himself behind enemy lines, fighting the most brutal battle of the Korean War. The Notorius Battle of Chosin Reservoir. John sustained injuries from incoming mortar shells during that tumultuous battle. His injuries were not merely physical, as he also suffered from "shell shock" (later referred to as PTSD).
He was awarded two Purple Hearts, a one star Korean Service Medal, a United Nations Service Medal, and a Good Conduct Medal before receiving an honorable discharge. Unbeknownst to him, he would later receive a letter from the President of South Korea, thanking him for his valor and his service. Anyone who truly knew John understood that although he couldn't change a lightbulb, you would be mistaken not to realize he truly was an absolute genius. He had a propensity to ponder things that most don't dare to even consider. This made for plenty of lively conversation at the pool amongst him and his beloved friends. Three of his most favorite sayings were: "Everything is the same but different"; "Give me, buy me, bring me, take me. What do you mean we're broke?" And "tell your story walking".
John was giving and compassionate. He was a devoted father and grandfather (Pop Pop"), who would sacrifice anything for his family. He loved taking his family on beautiful vacations, traveling to places such as Yellowstone National Park, among many others. It was during those moments and during those times spent together with his family that he was most truly gratified. John Miller McGrath was truly one of a kind and the best father I ever could have asked for.
Little Johnny, the adventurous young boy. The Marine, Private First Class. The genius. The loving family man. You will forever be loved, cherished, and missed. Rest in peace. Heaven knows you've most certainly earned it. We love you.
He is survived by Marsha Coe, Tiffane Coe and Brittany Coe.