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Love always Bev and Bernie planted 3 trees in memory of William McGrath
Monday, April 19, 2021
3 trees were planted in memory of
William Russell McGrath
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In loving memory of my big brother and friend. May theses trees be planted to symbolize peace, love and faith...love Bev and Bernie Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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Toni Piqué posted a condolence
Friday, December 24, 2021
I knew Bill's passing just today. He hosted me for three or four days —twice, in 1996 and in 1998— and showed me how things were done at the Free Press. He also had me at his home, with Marcia, where I discovered he was a devout catholic as I was and am trying to be. This was such a strong connection. We met also in Pamplona, Spain, and Barcelona —my city— and corresponded all the years on Christmas… He was such a lovely man and an accomplished professional. I am sure he and Marcia are having the best of times and are also taking care of us
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David E. Tonner posted a symbolic gesture
Monday, May 3, 2021
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I met Bill only once that I recall in person, although his drawings I encountered more frequently in the LFPress. I am sorry to the entire family, Bill Jr., Rob, Dan and families. I know that he will be missed. God bless all of you.
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Brian Gosling posted a condolence
Saturday, May 1, 2021
Sincere condolences to the McGrath family, friends and relatives. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Big hugs!
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Scott Woods posted a condolence
Thursday, April 22, 2021
I greatly appreciated reading the tributes in here to Bill McGrath, a wonderful person who someone else so accurately described as a "gentleman with a great sense of humour." I certainly have many fond memories growing up with the McGraths in London in the '70s/'80s -- I was a part of their family, just as Dan was a part of ours -- and Bill ("Mr. McGrath" to many of us) was always an inspiring and welcoming figure. Without doubt, the coolest dad in the neighbourhood. Certainly the dad with the greatest record collection. Buddy Holly, Howlin' Wolf (what on earth is a "Howlin' Wolf"? I used to wonder), Chuck Berry, numerous other blues, jazz, and early rock records, plus loads of classical as well. Also, the books and the art works. The McGrath household was filled with books, books on art and photography and much else, especially in the living room, where I would see Mr. McGrath sitting for hours, playing records, flipping through books, and working away. (I was of course always in awe of his own artistic abilities, and moreso the fact that he apparently handed these talents down to his children.)
It was of course not the record collection or the book collection per se that made Bill such a wonderful person, it was the way he so openly shared his love and knowledge of these things to everyone, even to us kids. There was nothing "off limits" about this. If you were interested in one of Bill's records, he would tell you a story about it -- where he acquired it, who the artist was, why it mattered to him or what songs he liked -- and I can't convey how important that was to me and presumably many others. It was not something I understood or appreciated until later in life, but what an inspiration it can be to have someone you look up to not merely to "teach" you but actually engage with you on the subject. "Listen to this part!" I would recall Bill exclaiming when a certain moment in a song was coming up. He had all the vitality of a teenager in that regard, truly.
So many terrific memories of Bill Sr. and everyone in the McGrath household during those years: the wonderfully kind and funny Marcie ("Mrs" to me), Billy Jr., Robbie, and of course my best pal for so many years, Dan. What an honour to have friends, and really, family, like the McGraths. My deepest condolences to all of Bill's great family.
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Sherman Dean Harrison uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, April 21, 2021
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Rob, Dan, Billy, I feel for you very deeply and wish I could be with you at this time. I thank God for Bill’s kindness and imagination. I’m so thankful to Bill, Marcie and each of you for all being decent, kind and creative people. When I was a kid, Bill was always warm and made me feel welcome with humour. At the McGraths you would inevitably be exposed to music and art and Bill’s enthusiasm. Late night card parties at the Harrison’s kept the whole neighbourhood up with Marcie's explosive laughter and Bill's rapid giggle. Bill and my Dad shared faith, friendship and a love of art. Bill is a giant of kindness and imagination who continues to show me a thoughtful and creative way forward. - This picture is from 1972. Rob and I were annoying while Bill carves the turkey.
Dean Harrison
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Debra Howard posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 21, 2021
Dear Dan and kathy and all of the McGrath family, my mom (Rosemary) just told me of the passing of your dad. I have so many good memories of all of our times growing up in Norton Estates and being part of the St. Jude’s extended family. I remember both of your parents always being friendly and welcoming and Dan, I think your dad gifted you with his sense of humour!
I will have you all in my thoughts during this difficult time.
Take care, Debra ( Nangle) Howard
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Juanita Sims uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, April 20, 2021
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I'm sad to learn of Bill's passing. He hired me to work in the newsroom graphics department of the Free Press in 1989. I was always glad for his knowledge, wisdom, humour, and good company, for many years.
Juanita Sims
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Patricia Leclerc uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, April 20, 2021
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We were so sad to hear of Uncle Bill’s passing. We always enjoyed his company when he came up North to visit us.
There was something extra special about Uncle Bill. He had, I guess you would say “the package” – he was kind, interesting, smart and generous (and of course COOL). I can still remember his contagious laugh. Spending time with him would calm me and there was always something to learn when he told his stories.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the McGrath family.
Côme & Patricia Leclerc
Kapuskasing, Ontario
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Jerry posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 20, 2021
The conversations we frequently had before the Baconian Club meetings will always be remembered and cherished. Bill was an incredible individual, an amazing human being. We would like to offer your entire family our deepest and most sincere condolences and may the soul of his rest in peace. From all your friends at Chaucer's and Marienbad
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Richard Vandierendonck posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 20, 2021
We are saddened to hear of the passing of Bill. We volunteered with Bill at CPRI with Operation Book Mark ( Used Books).
We always enjoyed our Wednesday mornings working with the books. Bill's vast knowledge and world travel experiences astounded us. Bill always had great stories to share and he was very witty. Of course Bill made the best cup of coffee for our breaks.Some Wednesday's he would be late because he could not miss the Free Press retired and fired breakfast.
Our condolences and prayers for his family.
Cathy & Richard Vandierendonck
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John Brunt posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 20, 2021
So sorry to hear of your dad's passing. He is at peace now. I have a lot of good memories of get togethers in the past particularly Bill's 40th birthday.
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Keith McKee donated to ST. JOHN THE DIVINE PARISH
Tuesday, April 20, 2021
My heartfelt sympathy to Bill's family. I knew Bill from the Baconian Club of London. Keith McKee
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John Matsui posted a condolence
Monday, April 19, 2021
I'm saddened that Bill has left us but heartened to have known a man whose great talent was surpassed only by his kindness and modesty. John Matsui
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Rory Leishman posted a condolence
Monday, April 19, 2021
I will always treasure the memory of Bill McGrath as a very good man, a very good friend, and a very good Christian, whose good humour, unfailing kindness and living witness to the love and grace of Christ have been such a blessing to all who knew him. Bill assured me that he had his faults. I am glad that I did not know any of them.
Caroline and I extend our sincere condolences to Bill's family and all who mourn the death of this good and kind man. He fought the good fight, he kept the faith and has finished the race. May God's richest and greatest blessings abide with him forever.
Rory Leishman
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John Carson posted a condolence
Monday, April 19, 2021
Our condolences to all the family. Bill was a kind and special friend who will be dearly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. John and Pat Carson
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Tony Nother posted a condolence
Monday, April 19, 2021
Sincere condolences on the death of Bill. A member of the Knights of Columbus, Council 11053, for many years and a founding member of St. John the Divine Parish, he will always have a special place in our hearts. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family at this time. A Mass will be offered in his memory at a later date.
On behalf of all of his Br. Knights, may the Lord have mercy on his soul and grant him eternal rest.
Tony Nother, Grand Knight
Council 11053
St. John the Divine RC Parish
London, ON
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Juliette & Dale Harrison Posted Apr 20, 2021 at 10:17 AM
Our deepest condolences to Dan, Rob, Bill, and their wives, their children, grandchildren and great great grandchildren. We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. We will remember Bill as a faithfilled man with great compashion Remembering all the card games, the interesting conversations and the good person he was will live in our hearts. May God's peace be with all of you.
Juliette & Dale Harrison
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Dick White donated to JENNIFER ASHLEIGH CHILDREN'S CHARITY
Monday, April 19, 2021
I first met Bill when I worked with him in the Creative Services department at The London Free Press over 51 years ago. A truly gifted artist and quality human being. My deepest sympathies to the entire McGrath family. Rest in peace Bill!
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CCT Canada purchased flowers
Monday, April 19, 2021
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Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss... Our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
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Ian Hunter posted a condolence
Monday, April 19, 2021
I met Bill about 4 decades ago. I cannot now recall why we met but I remember that I lamented that London lacked any good Chinese restaurant to meet in; "Leave that to me", Bill said, and we met up at the day appointed at Kambie, where I noticed that Bill was treated practically as a member of the family. He later told me that a Free Press colleague had made it his mission to systematically eat through the expansive Kambie menu, on completion echoing the Creator in the Book of Genesis by pronouncing it "Very Good". I sometimes thereafter wondered thereafter if the "colleague" was Bill himself!
Over succeeding years Bill and I enjoyed countless lunches and dinners at Kambie, particularly after the death of his beloved wife, Marcie.
Bill was of matchless assistance to me in the design and production of five of my books; he was a brother-in-arms at two London clubs, the Baconians and the Wrinklings, the latter affectionately referred to by another departed member (Dr. Barry de Veber) as "...a gathering of the most despised men in London".
Sixteen years ago, when I was received into the full communion of the Roman Catholic Church, Bill was one of my sponsors.
I shall greatly miss Bill's talents, wisdom, and above all his companionship. My condolences to his family.
It is part of our shared faith that we shall meet again. Until that day "Rest eternal, grant Bill, O God, and may light perpetual shine upon him."
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jim chapman Posted Apr 19, 2021 at 8:55 PM
Sometimes the friendships you make later in life are among the most enlightening, and cherished. Although I certainly knew who he was from his work at the Free Press, Bill and I didn't meet until I joined the Baconian Club several years ago. He immediately extended the hand of friendship, I immediately grasped it, and was forever grateful I had done so. In my experience he was a man of strong opinions, rare wit, and compassionate outlook. I cannot speak for others, but I will miss him a lot.
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Geoffrey Corfield posted a condolence
Monday, April 19, 2021
Sorry to hear about Bill. I think I last saw him on a bar stool at The Ceeps. Before that it was used book sales, the Baconian Club, the curling club, his artwork for David E Scott, and The Freeps. And my father liked him as well.
Geoffrey Corfield
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Don Murray posted a condolence
Monday, April 19, 2021
Deeply saddened by Bill’s passing. He was someone I had many great chats with and
many, many great laughs. Perhaps I can best honour his memory by relating that
after the newsroom strike against The Free Press was settled in 1990 Bill was the
only supervisor I asked to sign my strike poster!
Don Murray
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Helen Connell posted a condolence
Monday, April 19, 2021
Bill was a gentleman with a wonderful sense of humour. We all knew that a project was going to turn out well if Bill had a hand in the artwork and design. When he learned I was looking for a cottage in Bayfield, he piped up that he had a lot to sell me. When I asked if it was near the water, he piped up, “not yet,” but with the state of the shore erosion at that time, he said “it soon will be.” I’ve often thought of Bill when I’m on that property in Bayfield. While it’s no closer to the lake, I appreciate how lucky I was, in so many ways, to have known him.
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Andrew McGrath uploaded photo(s)
Monday, April 19, 2021
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Dan Crandles donated to LONDON AND AREA FOOD BANK INC
Monday, April 19, 2021
To all the McGrath's (you already know this): your da (granda) was loved and respected by all who knew him. He will be missed dearly and remembered fondly always.
Dan and Bonnie
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Bill Exley posted a condolence
Monday, April 19, 2021
Bill McGrath was a true gentleman, one who went out of his way to be helpful to others. I met him over fifty years ago, but I got to know him better during 2001-2002 when he shared his experiences with me, when I was secretary of the Baconian Club, a position he had occupied the year before. He was a respected president of the Club during 2002-2003, and he continued to attend meetings and contribute to the discussions, and was there at the last meeting of the Club before the pandemic on March 2, 2020.
One of Bill's most remarkable traits was his understated sense of humour, which he maintained to the end of his life. I was able to visit him on April 7, 2021, his 85th birthday, and the first thing he said when I entered his apartment was, "Bill, how did we get to be so old?" He described vividly the visit of Father Gabriel with him, and as I looked at the colour in the walking man print by Greg Curnoe, whom Bill knew, which was there on the wall, I thought that Bill had brought the same kind of cheerfulness to the people he had known.
Bill Exley
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Guy Nicoletti posted a condolence
Sunday, April 18, 2021
I was but a mere child when I started working in the Creative Services department at the Free Press and Bill quickly made me feel welcome and took me under his wing. He was like a big brother colleague and we’ve been friends ever since. Words can’t convey how sad I am and I just want to extend my sincerest condolences to Bill Jr., Dan and Rob and all their extended families.
Guy & Lynne Nicoletti
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The family of William Russell McGrath uploaded a photo
Sunday, April 18, 2021
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George Hutchison uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, April 18, 2021
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We worked together and played together for so many years. I consider it one of life's privileges to have shared Bill's company. He was a prince, with loads of talent. Although an award-winning illustrator and master of the visual arts, he was also politically astute and well read on scores of issues; ever ready to offer his thoughtful comments and/or advice on world events and local matters. He enriched the lives of all who had the good fortune to know him. My condolences to his loving family. Trite, but true, he will be missed- George Hutchison
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David Van Domelen posted a condolence
Sunday, April 18, 2021
Our deepest condolences to all of Uncle Bill's family. He was a great man! We loved listening to his stories. He laughed so easily. Uncle Bill made us all better people just for knowing him. The Van Domelen Family David, Lynn, Peter and Betty.
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Allan Fischer Posted Apr 19, 2021 at 9:03 PM
So sad, I will miss him. My wife and I dont get up to London much lately, but the last time we made it a point to visit Bill, he was one of my dads in my little village on Notre Dame Drive, so even after all these years he still gave insightful advice to me on that day. We will truly miss him.
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