John Kenneth McGrath

John Kenneth McGrath

April 3, 1937 – February 7, 2026

John Kenneth McGrath was born in Glens Ferry, Idaho, to George and Irene McGrath, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his brothers Donald and Harold McGrath. He is survived by his younger brother, James McGrath, and his sister, Dorothy McGrath.

John grew up during the final years of the Great Depression and learned the value of hard work at a young age. As a teenager, he traveled during the summers, often hitchhiking to find farm work. Through determination and long hours in the fields, he earned enough money to buy his own car while attending Mountain Home High School. In school, he was active in boxing, football, track, and baseball.

After high school, John met the love of his life, Lois M. Bedard McGrath. They were married for 62 years before her passing five years ago. He spoke of her often and with deep love. Together they raised three sons: Gary, Mike, and Charles McGrath. John was a devoted father who taught his boys to hunt, fish, work hard, and be good men. Later in life, he and his sons built a family cabin together and spent many years cutting firewood for both their Boise home and the cabin.

John enjoyed competitive shooting and participated in a pistol league alongside his sons, grandsons, and granddaughter, often winning team awards. He served as Range Master at the pistol club and remained active there until his health declined.

He loved fishing and took pride in teaching his grandchildren how to find the perfect fishing spot and appreciate the outdoors.

John is survived by his six grandsons, six granddaughters, and ten great-grandchildren. He was cared for by his family in his final days. He will be deeply loved and greatly missed.