Obituary of James McGrath

James Pfau McGrath passed away on February 11, 2016 at Ellis Hospital, after a brief illness. "Jimmy" was born in Utica NY in 1936 to his late parents Hugh and Irene McGrath. After moving to Schenectady early in his life, he was raised by them in strict Catholic fashion. He attended school at St. Joseph's in Schenectady and graduated in 1955. While attending St. Joseph's, he became an area standout, playing the game he loved most, basketball. After graduating from high school, James enlisted in the Army. He served his country until honorably discharged in 1957. James returned to Schenectady and worked jobs, until he found the career that would be his passion for 27 years. James, mostly known by his colleagues as "JP" and sometimes "Doc", became a member of the Schenectady Police Department in 1965. He served at many levels of the job from street cop to investigator. Being a strong supporter of his union, he was a member of the Schenectady Police Benevolent Association. He retired in 1991 with his head held high and leaving with memories both good and bad that he would share with his family for the rest of his life. Shortly before retiring, "Jim", met a wonderful woman named, Joanne. They began dating and he would soon realize that she was the woman he wanted to spend the rest of his life with. They loved to travel and entertain family and friends poolside at the house. In 1992 they married and since have been, and will forever, remain in each others hearts. Before meeting, Joanne, James took great pride in his two children, Brian and Deborah Ann. Although working constantly to provide for his family, Dad never missed an opportunity to watch his children excel in and after school. He loved watching his son play football and later lived vicariously through his son his passion to fight fires. He never missed being able to watch his daughter cheerlead and run track and field. No performer compared to his daughter's voice, especially when she sang the national anthem. He ardently followed her current career as a fitness expert and was amazed how athletic she is. James was the "middle" of three sons. He was predeceased by his older brother, Donald; and is survived by his "Little Bro", Peter. Along with his father and brothers, James would develop his strong conservative political views with weekly Sunday arguments. After meeting, Joanne, he became the father figure for her two daughters, Tracey and Alicia. Although being a stepfather, he loved them as he did his own children. He always trusted Tracey's medical advice and he always trusted Alicia to make him laugh. The mention of any of his grandchildren, Sean, Gianna, Eddie, Felicia, Tyler and Morgan, always put a smile on his face. He is survived by many nieces and nephews. He shared many laughs and memories with his friends, especially his friend of many years, Nancy Moorby. He was proud of his Irish heritage and was a member of the Ancient Order of Hiberians JFK Division 1. He was a lifetime member of the N.Y.S. Retired Police Association and the Schenectady Police Retired Association. Funeral Mass, Wednesday morning, 10 o'clock at St. John the Evangelist Church. Calling hours, Tuesday, 4 to 7 p.m. at the Daly Funeral Home, 242 McClellan St. Interment, Gerald B.H. Soloman Saratoga National Cemetery, Schuylerville. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude's Children Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, Kansas 66675. .