William L. McGrath, age 87, a lifelong resident of Pepperell, Massachusetts passed away peacefully Friday April 1, 2022, at his home with his family by his side.  William was born March 9, 1935 in Pepperell to William and Mary (Michuk) McGrath.  He was married to Patricia G. (Owen) McGrath for 54 loving years.  

 

William was employed as a crane operator in the Local 4 International Union of Operating Engineers for over 60 years.  He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.  He was an avid outdoorsman.  You could find William in the woods of Vermont, where he enjoyed many wonderful years of hunting and spending time with his friends. He loved to reminisce about the old days while sitting at home on the porch enjoying an ice cold Bud.

 

William is survived by his wife, Patricia; his children Ralph McGrath and his wife Tracy of Fitchburg, his daughter Charlotte Connor of Pepperell, William McGrath, Michael McGrath and Carol Sanderson all of Fitchburg and Beth McGrath of Arkansas; several grandchildren including Nicholas and his wife Ellen Connor of Westford, and Evan McGrath of Fitchburg,  and his nieces and nephews.

 

In addition to his parents he was predeceased by his brother Richard L. McGrath and his grandson Jacob W. McGrath.

 

The family would like to thank Daphne and Nancy from the Nashoba Nursing Service & Hospice for their kindness and support.

 

William touched the lives of many and will be greatly missed.

 

In lieu of flowers, donations in William’s name may be made to Nashoba Nursing & Hospice, 3 Patterson Road, Suite 3, Shirley, MA 01464 (www.nashoba.org)

 

Calling hours will be held Wednesday April 6, from 4 pm - 7 pm, at McGaffigan Family Funeral Home, 37 Main Street (Rte. 113) Pepperell, MA.  His Funeral Mass will be celebrated Thursday, April 7 at 10 am at Our Lady of Grace worshiping at St. Joseph Church, 28 Tarbell Street, Pepperell.  Burial is private.