Stephen E "Steve Beve" McGrath

Stephen Earl McGrath, affectionately known as "Beve" or "Steve," passed away unexpectedly on June 4, 2024, just shy of his 53rd birthday. Born on July 2, 1971, in Manchester, NH, to the late William and Margaret (Colligan) McGrath, Steve grew up in Derry, NH, where he attended Pinkerton Academy.
Steve spent his weekends in Raymond, NH, forming cherished memories with his beloved grandmother, Ruby Colligan and making lifelong friends. During these visits, he helped out at A.I.S. Welch and Sons and assisted with the local bus company run by the Welch family. This close bond led to a lifelong friendship with Paul Welch, who later stood as Steve's best man at his wedding. While visiting Raymond, Steve began volunteering with the Raymond Fire Department, where he developed a passion for community service.
It was during one of his morning visits to McDonald's for coffee in the fall of 1988 that he met the love of his life, Jennifer, also known as "Jenny," who worked in the drive-thru. After a few trips through the drive-thru, he mustered up the courage to ask her on a date. On January 2, 1989, they embarked on an adventurous trip to Pawtuckaway to climb to the fire tower. After that, they were inseparable, and their love grew strong over the years. Steve and Jenny married exactly ten years later, on January 2, 1999, and made their home in Steve's grandmother's old house. They were blessed with two children: Nathan, born in 2003, and Jillian, born in 2006.
Steve was a dedicated and hardworking individual. He worked for Greg's Lawn Service in the '90s, alongside Paul Welch in logging. He then worked for a few years in the '90s for the State of New Hampshire, doing just about everything. He then spent a few years working for Stratham Excavation, where he learned city sewer and water works. He also ran excavation and heavy equipment for many commercial jobs. It was after that he developed a love for heavy machinery, leading him to purchase his own equipment and start his own business, SJM Trucking, which he ran successfully for many years. In 2015, he started working for Bell and Flynn out of Exeter, NH. There, he operated just about everything: trucks, excavators, and dozers. He also learned how to use the road grader, which led him to rebuild many roads in southern New Hampshire. He also worked alongside Ricky Hammond at Raymond Septic, pumping tanks and installing new septic systems. He drove the plow truck for Ricky at Patrol Shed 513, which led him to his final career, where he was employed with the NH DOT District 5. Steve took immense pride in his work and was particularly proud of receiving the safety award at NH DOT.
Known for his straightforwardness, humor, and unwavering support, Steve loved the outdoors. In his younger years, he rode dirt bikes and later developed a love for snowmobiling. He particularly enjoyed trips up north with his wife on the snowmobiles. He enjoyed his annual Memorial Day trips to New York, where he spent quality time with family and friends. His biggest passion, though, was camping and boating, especially with the annual family trips to Long Island Bridge Campground on Lake Winnipesaukee being a highlight. He cherished the time spent with his family at Lake Winnipesaukee, creating countless memories on the water, whether boating, tubing, or simply enjoying each other's company.
Beve was a familiar and beloved figure in the Raymond community. He was actively involved, sometimes being called the mayor. Whether it was helping at the Congregational Church's chicken BBQ, volunteering at the fire department, assisting friends with various projects, or fixing small engines, you could often find him in the front yard with a cocktail in hand, either watering, mowing, or simply sitting outside, admiring his lawn. His lawn became his passion, and he was determined to have the greenest lawn in all of Raymond. He would joke about the business down the street, which also had very green grass, but he was confident that their grass would never be as green as his. He loved working outside, whether in the front yard or the back.
Beve was always there to lend a helping hand, embodying the true meaning of love and dedication for his family. As a devoted father, he worked tirelessly to ensure that his family was well taken care of, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to their well-being. His influence on his two children was profound, instilling in them the values of hard work and dedication that shaped them into the accomplished individuals they are today. His legacy is reflected in the strength and character of his children, a testament to the love and effort he poured into his role as a father. He was an exceptional husband, steadfast and loving, no matter what challenges life threw at them. His unwavering love for Jenny provided a foundation of strength and resilience for their family. Through thick and thin, he remained a pillar of love and stability, embodying the true essence of partnership and commitment.
Steve is survived by his loving wife, Jenny; his children, Nathan and Jillian; his brother David McGrath from Manchester; his girlfriend Susan Boudreau, also of Manchester; his sister Tricia Bohle from New York; and his younger siblings Hannah Wood and Julian Wood, both from Florida, as well as many extended family members and friends.
Steve McGrath will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his vibrant spirit, generous heart, and unwavering commitment to his family and community.
Calling hours will be Monday, June 10, 2024, from 2-4 pm as well as 6-8 pm at Brewitt Funeral Home, 2 Epping Street, Raymond, NH. A service will be held on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, at 10:00 am at Brewitt Funeral Home, 2 Epping Street, Raymond, NH. Following the service, the family invites everyone to join them for a celebration of life at the Raymond American Legion, 32 Harriman Hill Rd, Raymond, NH 03077, from 11:00 am - 2:00 pm.
Flowers are acceptable.