Joan McGrath

Joan McGrathOf Arlington HeightsJoan McGrath, 86, beloved mother and grandmother, passed away in her sleep on May 19th, 2020 in Arlington Heights, IL. Joan enjoyed 31 years of marriage to William D. Gallagher (Bill) before he passed at the early age of 51. Together they had four children, Sean (Beth), Michael (Anne), Brian (Kathy), and Margaret. After years of friendship and later courtship, Joan married James T. McGrath and they had 23 years of happiness together before he passed on April 16th, 2020. Joan lived a full life and loved spending her time on the water in Lake Geneva, WI. She was especially fond of her 13 grandchildren, Brittany (Dennis), Bridget (Tyler), Shannon (Michael), Billy, Brian, Lauren (Ryan), Kevin, Colleen, Scott (Liza), Abbey (Ricky), David, Heidi, and Madison. She also has three adorable great-grandchildren, Elliot, Lucy, and Max. Joan was an active member of the Saint James Parish Community and the Abby Ridge Condo Association. At St. James, Joan was chairwoman of the S.O.C. Committee for 30 years, and a faithful friend to many priests and parishioners. She helped build the St. James Parish center, and she was especially fond of the days when services were held in the old Arlington Movie Theatre. Joan’s faithful commitments also contributed to the St. Viator High School community as she ran several "Night of the Lion" Fundraisers. She was president of the parent’s club, and actively volunteered in musical productions at both St. James and St. Viator. Joan always loved the water, beginning with her safety patrol days on Lake Geneva as a teenager to boating and socializing in her golden years. Lake Geneva was her haven where she shared special memories with her 13 beloved grandchildren while soaking up the sun on Que Sera Sera. Among her favorite times were Christmas celebrations with family, where children and grandchildren would eagerly discover various special ornaments to reveal a thoughtful surprise. Joan thrived in good company, whether it was working with her colleagues or socializing with friends. We will always remember "bowling nights" with Bill and the league, boating on Lake Geneva, and the special memories and laughs we created together.Funeral service and interment were private. A Memorial Mass and celebration of Joan’s life will occur at a later date.