James McGrath

James R. McGrath , 85, of Eldridge, Iowa, passed away at Genesis East Hospital on March 12, 2026. A man of skill and steady presence, Jim made lasting memories with his family and on the hearts of those who knew him.

Jim was Born on July 23, 1940, in Dubuque, Iowa to Ralph & Bernadine (Schmitt) McGrath. Jim was a proud 1958 graduate of Loras Academy staying active in their alumni organization for years. He dedicated 40 years of his work life to the Sheet Metal Workers Local Union 91, where his work ethic and reliability was unmatched. While his employment contributions were many, his proudest achievement was personal: the family home he built from the ground up in Asbury, Iowa—a testament to his talent and his devotion to providing for his loved ones.

Jim’s younger years were occupied by spending beloved summers on his Uncle Clem’s farm. It was there he learned the value of hard work through daily chores and developed his skills as a "fierce" Euchre player—a passion that stayed with him throughout his life.

An avid sportsman, Jim spent his time participating on men’s softball teams and in bowling leagues. In later years, he could often be found passionately pursuing the game of golf.

Jim found a second family in the H.O.G. Chapter #5734. For many years, he was a very active member, embarking on countless summer motorcycle trips across the country on his beloved orange Harley-Davidson.

Above all, Jim was a family man. He found his greatest joy in the simple things: cheering from the sidelines at his grandchildren’s sporting events, being surrounded by family, and wearing the official red Santa cap at Christmas. Jim’s competitive spirit ran deep! He hated to lose. It was a brave soul who agreed to partner with him. He was the kind of man who truly valued being included; if there was an outing or an invitation, you could count on Jim to be there with a smile.

Jim is survived by his brother Dan McGrath, sisters Judy Runde and Kay McGrath. His wife Ruth Ann (Mettille) McGrath, daughters, Donna (Gary) Urwiler, Lynn (Dave) Schooler and Sandy (Rick) Hoerner. His 10 grandchildren: Zach (Lexi) Urwiler, Quinton Urwiler, Trey Urwiler, Brad (Megan) Schooler, Cody (Kalyn) Schooler, Taylor Bruns, Travis McGrath, Streat Hoerner, Samantha (Ben) Mulstein and Hannah (Max) Unmacht and 6 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by father Ralph McGrath, mother Bernadine McGrath, brother Jerry McGrath, son Kevin McGrath, daughters Robin McGrath & Julie Bruns, grandson Aaron Schooler and son in law Rick Hoerner.

● Visitation: Sat. March 21 9:30-11:00 am at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church, Davenport, Iowa

● Funeral Mass: Sat. March 21 11:00 am at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church, Davenport, Iowa

● Online condolences may be left for the family at www.rungemortuary.com