Edward J. Mcgrath

Edward J. ""Eddie"" McGrath, 81, of Rockford, passed away on Sunday, May 17, 2009 at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center. Born September 24, 1927 in Rockford; the son of Edward M. and Rena (Ravizza) McGrath. He served in the Marine Corps during WWII. Married Mary Jane Tripp in Rockford on October 27, 1951. He attended Purdue University. Eddie was employed in the Accounting Dept. at Warner-Lambert until his retirement in 1986. Was a past member of St. Edward Catholic Church and presently a member of St. Bridget Catholic Church. Eddie was 4th Degree in the Knights of Columbus. He sang with the Catholic Church choir since he was in 1st grade. Eddie and Mary Jane belonged to a potluck group of good friends that had met for 55 years. He was also an active participant at the Rockford Speedway for many years including singing the National Anthem. Eddie and Mary Jane held season tickets for Boylan Basketball & Football games since the school opened. He was an avid Notre Dame, Bears and a true blue Cubs fan. Eddie was a constant source of caring support and loving guidance towards his family and friends. Survivors include his daughters, Katie (Terry) Booker and Maureen (Steven Builta) McGrath; grandsons, Dan (Anne Marie) Booker, Ryan (Susie) Fritz, Brent Fritz and Eric (Kristin) Fritz; great-grandchildren, Alyas and Izze Fritz; a beloved niece and 3 beloved nephews. Predeceased by his wife, Mary Jane; sister, Margaret Tulley and brother-in-law, Edward Tulley. Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00am on Thursday, May 21, 2009 at St. Bridget Catholic Church, 600 Clifford Ave. Burial in Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 10:00am until 11:00am on Thursday at the church. Memorials may be made to the family for a memorial to be established at a later date. To