Joseph F. McGrath, Jr, of Duxbury, MA, passed away on Saturday, August 12, at the age of 68, having battled pancreatic cancer for several months. He leaves his wife of 46 years, Sheila, sons Mark, Steven and oldest son, Brian, daughter-in-law Jen, and granddaughters Margot and Norah. He also leaves brothers James, John, and Robert, as well as sisters Margaret and Patricia.
Joseph had been visiting Duxbury since his Grandparents built a small cottage on Dingley Dell Lane in West Duxbury in the 1950's. His parents later had a home built on an adjacent lot, and he graduated Duxbury High in 1966.
Joe met his future wife, Sheila, in 1967, at UMass, Amherst, but after 2 years, enlisted in the Navy rather than being drafted. The Navy educated him for over 2 years, before he was assigned to Newport, RI.
After discharge, Joe used his Naval training to embark on a career in electronics engineering at Teradyne of Boston, then LTX. A highlight at LTX was the opportunity for extensive travel, including a 2 year posting for the family to England.
Joe then created a business and spent 20 years managing 5 apartment buildings for his in-laws upon their retirement. Joe loved staying in touch with college friends through his very active fraternity, Phi Sigme Delta, as well as the many cousins of his large extended family. He also enjoyed working on his home and gardens, as well as being a very creative cook.
Visiting hours will be held at the Shepherd Funeral Home, 216 Main St, Rt 106, Kingston, on Sunday, August 20th from 1:00 to 5:00 pm. Funeral services will be Monday, August 21st, at the Shepherd Funeral Home at 11:00am. Private burial services will be at the VA Cemetery in Bourne, on Tuesday.
To offer condolences or for directions please visit www.shepherdfuneralhome.com. Shepherd Funeral Home, Kingston.