John B. McGrath

John Bernard McGrath passed away at the age of 91 on February 3, 2024.  He was born on November 14, 1932 in the West End of Boston, Massachusetts and spent most of his adult life in Ashland, Massachusetts.  John suffered a stroke in May 2018 and spent the last several years at the Coleman House in Northborough, Massachusetts.

John was an outstanding high school athlete who set many track and field and speed skating records as a teenager and later enlisted in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War.  Upon his return from the war, he was employed by New England Telephone and later married Joan Meade, a registered nurse, in November 1958.

John held many positions at New England Telephone for over 40 years and retired in July 1998.   John was an active member of the Knights of Columbus, a regular member of the choir at: St. Cecelia’s Church in Ashland, the Grace Church in Sherborn, MA, and, most recently, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Hopkinton, MA.  Both John and Joan enjoyed taking cruises and spending summers near Goose Rocks Beach in Kennebunkport, ME.  One memorable trip for him was to Ireland; he was very proud of his Irish Heritage.

John is survived by his wife Joan, his brother Kevin (Robin), and his three children: Brian McGrath (Jean), Kathy Chiasson (Paul Winoski), and Julia Dowd (Bobby); as well as his seven grandchildren: Megan, Sean, Nicholas, Michael, Colin, Kyle, and Amanda; as well as four great-grandchildren: Julian, Isabella, Russell, and Ellie.

John was a very active member of Alcoholics Anonymous, an organization close to his heart, and had recently achieved fifty years of sobriety. He was a sponsor and role model for many people in recovery.  He was beloved for his dedication to his children and grandchildren, who brought him much joy.  John embraced his priorities of faith, family, and friends.

A Celebration of Life for John will be planned later this year.