John Frederick McGrath

It is with deep sadness that we the family of John Frederick “Fred” McGrath announces his passing at age 99, on Saturday, September 28, 2019, following a brief stay at the Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre - Halifax Infirmary.

He was a son of the late Michael Joseph (Joe) McGrath and Alice (Phelan) McGrath; born and raised in Halifax, and very proud of his “North End Irish” heritage. He was a WW II volunteer serving in the Royal Canadian Air Force for the duration of the war followed by a career in the family business; M.J. McGrath and Sons, a large grocery store located on the corner of Macara and Agricola streets. He successfully managed the business for the better part of twenty five years until, like so many other independents he saw the writing on the wall and sold out due to the changing environment of business. He joined Canada Post and spent the next eleven enjoyable years at the main Post Office on Almon Street.

Surviving are daughters, Marilyn Holm, Halifax; Elaine Swinimer (Leo); sons, Douglas (Donna), Halifax; Michael (Janice), New Glasgow and Paul (Shealagh), Halifax; three granddaughters, three grandsons, four great granddaughters and two great grandsons.

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his spouse, Margaret “Tootsie” Scott; his sister, Patricia Nowlan; brother, Francis and a sister and granddaughter that both died in infancy.

Although he maintained relative independence for most of his retired life it was unquestionably our sister Elaine’s selfless daily support that enabled him to enjoy his final years at home and for that we are eternally grateful.

As his sons and daughters we can attest to the numerous times that our less fortunate school mates went home with groceries from the store so in lieu of flowers please make a donation to your local food bank. We know that act of kindness would please him.

A Mass to celebrate a life well lived will take place at 11:00 AM on Friday, October 4, 2019 at Saint Mother Teresa Catholic Church, 6032 Normandy Dr., Halifax, NS. Interment will take place at Mount Olivet Cemetery immediately following a brief reception at the Church.