James H. McGrath

Funeral services and Mass of Christian Burial for James McGrath, 86, of Bettendorf, will be held at 11am on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, Bettendorf. Cremation will be accorded following services. Visitation will be from 10am until time of services Saturday at the church. Memorials may be made to the church.

Mr. McGrath passed away Sunday, February 23, 2025, at Harmony, Davenport. 

James Herbert McGrath was born July 6, 1936, in Melrose, IA, a son of David and Marie (Heffron) McGrath. Following graduation from Iowa State University he earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from St. Ambrose College. He was then united in marriage to Catherine “Corky” Donohoe on September 2, 1961, at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Davenport.

Prior to his retirement, Jim had worked in sales for commercial office furniture. He then worked at Home Depot until his health declined. 

Jim grew up on the family farm and developed a love of the land, gardening, planting trees, and growing things that stayed with him his entire life. He took meticulous care of his lawn and had the best yard in the neighborhood. 

He was grounded in his faith and was a member of Our Lady of Lourdes where he also taught CCD. He was a 3rd Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, St. Bernadette Council #15430.

Jim was happiest when around family, friends, and his dogs and his infectious laugh made you want to laugh right along with him. Jim also enjoyed antiquing and watching the Cubs.

He was a veteran and served in the Army.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Corky; daughter Elizabeth McGrath of Bettendorf; son Michael McGrath of St. Louis; sister Celine (Bill) Moran of Kansas City, MO; and brothers David (Penny) McGrath of Des Moines, and Pat (Rose) McGrath of Indianola; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Online remembrances may be expressed at www.hmdfuneralhome.com.