Obituary of William F. McGrath

William F. McGrath, “Bill” of Clifton Park, NY passed away at the age of 87, on February 8, 2026 surrounded by family. Born in Troy, NY, Bill was the son to the late James J. McGrath and Mary E. O’Connor McGrath. Bill was the loving husband to Catherine McGrath, “Cathy” for over 53 years.

Bill was a graduate of Catholic Central High School. When Bill was in the army he was stationed in Heidelberg, Germany where he worked on cryptography since he excelled on his tests. He very much enjoyed his work and was able to travel to different countries. After the army Bill worked for the Department of Labor for New York State for 37.5 years. Bill retired early at the age 55 and he and his wife Cathy enjoyed many trips across Europe, cruises, and spent their winters in Florida. Bill enjoyed many hobbies during his retirement like Irish genealogy and with his love of books he ran the church book sale for many years. Most importantly though, it was the love of being with his family that mattered the most. Bill was affectionately called, “Bompa” by his family. Bompa loved to build sandcastles with the kids on the beaches of Rhode Island, Maine, Florida, and Cape Cod, he would put kids in barrels of leaves while raking, he would play the hand game or cut up fruit or cheese in the shape of animals, and he was a jokester and would playfully tease the kids. Bill and Cathy spent many days on the soccer fields and at track meets cheering on kids, grandkids, and great grand kids.  He took so much pride in his backyard and would have the entire yard and patios filled with flowers. He loved having people around the pool and would happily host work and family reunions. He had a big smile and a calm demeanor and was a friend to all. Simply put he was magic and was loved by his family and friends.

In addition to his wife, Cathy, Bill is survived by his loving children Tony Barone (Anne), Laurie Leirey (John), Shawn McGrath (Nora), and Erin Tribble (Edward). He is also survived by his grandchildren Ashleigh Bonzerato (David), Anthony Barone (Paige), Victoria Barone, Sarah Casey (Matt), Jessica Leirey, Rebecca Leirey, Rory McGrath, Regan McGrath, Kieran McGrath, and Declan Tribble. He is survived by his great grandchildren Mia and Bella Bonzerato, Angelo Bonzerato, R.J Seltzer, Nolan Barone, and Brynn Barone.  His siblings Margaret Ziter, (late Joseph), Eileen MacKay (late Raymond) Agnes Davidson (late Louis), and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings Joseph McGrath (late Virginia), Anne Meyer (late Harry), James, “Buddy” McGrath (late Phyllis), Mary Galusky (late Joseph), and Jack McGrath (Kathy).

Family and friends are invited to visit and may call from 4-7PM on Thursday, February 12th at the Gordon C. Emerick Funeral Home, 1550 Route Nine Clifton Park, NY. Funeral Mass will take place at 10:30AM on Friday, February 13^th at St. Edwards Church, Clifton Park, NY. Burial with full military honors will follow mass at 12:30PM at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville, NY.  

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Clifton Park Elks. Bill was a member for over 40 years. 

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