John F. McGrath Jr., a retired assistant principal and World War II veteran, passed away May 11th, 2011 in his Onset home surrounded by his family. He was 85.

John was the beloved husband of Jean (Merrigan) McGrath, whom he was married to for 61 years. He was the loving father of John of Atkinson, NH and his wife Wendy, Barbara Smith of Rochester, and her husband Walter, Nancy Oberg of Sandwich, Gary of Onset, and Thomas of Whitefield, ME and his wife Patricia. He is also survived by 13 beloved grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

John was born in Needham, on December 10, 1925, and grew up in Natick. Known as “Junie,” he was an all-star player on the Natick High School football team. He enlisted in the Army in 1944, and served as a medical aidman in England, France, Belgium and Germany.

He later graduated from Stonehill College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics. John taught history and coached football at Medfield High School in Medfield, retiring as an assistant principal after 30 years in the Medfield Schools. After retiring, John maintained a house painting business on Cape Cod for more than 10 years.

John was a hard-working and generous man who loved spending time with his wife and family. He was known for playing Santa Claus for his grandchildren on Christmas. When he wasn't painting houses in the summer, he could be found motoring around Buzzards Bay in his boat, or enjoying his backyard garden with his wife, Jean. He was a great conversationalist, loved history and reading, and was an avid Patriots fan. Papa will be remembered for his warm and kind spirit.

His funeral was held at the Chapman, Cole & Gleason Funeral Home on May 16. A Mass of Christian Burial followed at St. Margaret’s Church in Buzzards Bay. Interment will be in Mass. National Cemetery, Bourne.