Roger T. McGrath, 74, passed away on Tuesday November 12, surrounded by his family after a 9 year battle with cancer. He was born in Chicago, Illinois on September 20, 1950 and attended St. Alexander Grade School and Willowbrook High School in Villa Park, Illinois.
Roger attended Western Illinois University for his undergraduate studies and completed his MBA at University of Southern California and Western Illinois University. He was drafted into the United States Army 1972 and served 3 1/2 years in Germany and 1 year with the Illinois National Guard. While serving in Germany he was recruited to play baseball on the Air Force baseball team and played softball for the Army team.
Roger was an active volunteer in the community and dedicated much of his time to help support others. He was an active member of the Knights of Columbus. Over the years was very active with his children’s many activities, and often coached for their teams.Roger loved also spending time with his grandkids.
As well as being an active member in the community, Roger was an avid cyclist. He was a co-founder of the Bay Shore Bicycle Club as well as the Door County Century. He also participated in the Vets Rides with his son, John. He coached De Pere baseball, and started the De Pere Pony Baseball League. Roger also helped raise money for the first Redbird dedicated softball facility, and was a member of the Booster Club for his son’s football league. He always made time to be present for his children’s sports, no matter what.
Roger married Veronica (Bottomley) McGrath on February 3, 1973 and celebrated 51 years of marriage. They have 3 children – Patrick R. (Kelly Simpson), John R. (Katie Schwartz) and Helen V. Bradley (Grant Bradley). They have 4 grandchildren, soon to be 5 (Ashleigh, Sean, Taylor and Anna). Roger is also survived by his 2 sisters, Maureen Rendina and Kathleen (James) Watson; brother-in-law James Bottomley and sister-in-law Suellen Bottomley and several nieces and nephews.
Friends and family may come to call on Monday, November 18 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Ryan Funeral Home, 305 N Tenth Street De Pere, WI 54115. A memorial service will begin at 3:00 PM, with military honors to follow.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made towards the Old Glory Honor Flight.
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