Michael D. McGrath

McGRATH, MICHAEL D., 50 - of Northfield, passed away at home after a lengthy illness. Michael was born in Atlantic City and resided in Margate until moving to Northfield in 1982. He was predeceased by many family members including his parents, Frank and Jean, his grandmother, Edna, his brother, Frank Jr. and his sister and brother-in-law, Barbara and Charlie Sturgis. Michael is survived by his wife, Patty (Kern), two daughters, Lauren (Kris) Clayton of Oaklyn, Erica, also of Oaklyn and two sons, Dennis and Mikey (Lilli) at home, and three grandchildren, Raenna Lawhorn of Tampa, Bernadette Clayton and Baby Mikey. He is also survived by one brother, Butch (Dianna), and three sisters, Joanne Adams of Margate, Winnie (Bigness) Adams of Northfield and Nancy (Steve) Gillespie of Absecon as well as a host of nieces and nephews especially Dan Adams. His brothers at FMBA Local #41 and fellow members of the Longport Beach Patrol will also miss him. Michael attended Blessed Sacrament and graduated from Atlantic City High School before attending Atlantic Community College. He became a lifeguard in 1972, which began years of rowing competition that he seemed to love more than anything. He joined the Margate City Fire Department in 1976 and completed the "perfect" combination. He held the office of Captain in both organizations. Michael was a member of the Longport Fire Department, member and past officer of FMBA Local #41, member and co-founder with Lefty Dever of the Longport Lifeguard's Association member of the Atlantic City Guns and Hoses Ice Hockey team and was inducted into the Ocean Rowers Hall of Fame in 2005. Michael began rowing winning his first doubles trophy with Lou McFadden in 1973 and continued to compete in Lifeguard Competitions until 2004 when he won for the 15th time and rowed with his son, Mikey. He was also a seven times Singles champion. That year, he rowed for the last time Around the Island with Matt Kelm. He was very proud of his accomplishments and respectful of his competitors, always improving his preparations and setups. He continued this outlook during his fight to live. Michael was an avid golfer, traveling to Myrtle Beach annually with a bunch of "Slappers". He loved his Sportster, the Flyers, Notre Dame and watching "the boys" play hockey. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations be made to the Pearl Foundation created in Michael's honor or to the Lawrence "Bud" Kern Memorial Fund, both c/o FMBA Local #41, PO Box 3052, Margate, NJ 08402. Friends may call Tuesday, December 27, from 7 to 9 at Our Lady of Sorrows Church on Wabash Avenue in Linwood. A Mass will be said at 11am Wednesday, December 28 at our Lady of Sorrows with visitation beginning at 9:30am. Arrangements by George H. Wimberg Funeral Home.