Michael Patrick "Mike-Mike" McGrath

Michael Patrick “Mike Mike” McGrath passed away on March 7, 2025. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and veteran. He was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Mike lived a life of service and unwavering love for his family, country, and God. Mike was born on March 4, 1953, in Groton, Connecticut, while his father served in the U.S. Navy as a submariner. He was raised in Southern California alongside his siblings, Colleen Franklin, Trish Getch (Thom), and Jim McGrath (Audrey). He is survived by his two sisters Trish and Colleen. His parents, James and Patricia “Pat” McGrath, and his older brother, Jim McGrath, preceded him in death. In 1971, Mike married Margaret Martinson. They are the parents of 4 wonderful children. For the past 20 years, Mike has been a devoted husband to Missy. They were sealed in the Meridian Idaho Temple. Together, Mike and Missy gathered, planned, and created memories with all of their children and extended family. Emily Orchard (David), Christine Dietz, David McGrath (Paulina), Kevin McGrath (Melanie), Kelly Olsen (Hannah), Andy Olsen (Haley), Patrick Olsen (Lindsey), and Chris Olsen. Mike was a proud grandfather to Jacob, Alex, JuliAnn, and Aubrey Orchard; Tyler and Tenley Dietz; Reagan and Marcus McGrath; Aura, Rosie, and Mac McGrath; and Charlie Olsen. His love extended beyond his own family. He was called “Grandpa Mike” by many other young children and families, including Raelynn Perry, Louis, and Sophia Bardian, who he always made time for. Military Service Mike’s military journey began in the Air Force ROTC program at Brigham Young University, where he trained to become a pilot for the Vietnam War while his brother was already serving. Though the war ended before he was deployed, his commitment to service never wavered. Determined to continue, he joined the Idaho Air National Guard as a navigator, flying F-4 Phantoms—a role that ultimately brought him to Boise, Idaho. He served his country for close to 32 years while balancing a civilian career and retiring from the Idaho National Air Guard in 2003, as the last of the F-4s were phased out. Mike was recalled into active duty at Ramstein Air Base in Germany from 2010-2013, where he lived and served as a Lieutenant Colonel in intelligence and reconnaissance operations. His years in uniform reflected his deep patriotism, discipline, and dedication to his country. Education & Career Mike earned his bachelor's degree in business and finance from Brigham Young University and later completed a Master of Business Administration at Boise State University. While serving in the Idaho Air National Guard, he built a successful career at Intermountain Gas Company, where he worked for 34 years in regulatory affairs. His work was marked by diligence, integrity, and a commitment to doing things the right way. Retirement & Passions After retiring from both Intermountain Gas and military service, Mike embraced a life filled with the things he truly enjoyed. He studied small engine repair at CWI and spent time working at Ace Hardware in St. George, repairing motorcycles and lawn mowers simply because he liked the challenge. His greatest joy in retirement, however, was spending time with family and enjoying Idaho’s great outdoors, particularly fishing the rivers near Stanley and Sun Valley. A Life Well-Lived Throughout his life, Mike enjoyed staying active and engaged. He spent time flying his small planes, skiing, and golfing—hobbies that reflected his sense of adventure and love of the great outdoors. He also had a natural ability to connect with people, whether through a quick conversation, a well-timed joke, or his signature farewell: “Take the rest of the day off, with pay!” His humor, warmth, and love of conversation made every interaction memorable, leaving a lasting impression on those around him. Mike will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his discipline, and his ability to bring laughter to any moment. He led by example, demonstrating the importance of hard work and a lifelong commitment to serving others, and he leaves this legacy of service through the lives he touched and the lessons he taught. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 12:00 PM at the LDS Chapel, located at 1068 Chandler Drive, St. George, Utah, 84770. For those unable to attend in person, a digital broadcast of the funeral services will be available through the funeral home's website. Serenity Funeral Home of Southern Utah. A graveside service for family will immediately follow at Tonaquint Cemetery, located at 1777 S Dixie Dr, St. George, Utah, 84770. All family and friends are warmly invited to a luncheon honoring Mike’s favorite foods—tacos and Diet Coke—at 2:30 PM at the south covered pavilion in Tonaquint Park, located at 1851 S Dixie Dr, St. George, Utah, 84770. Flowers and cards may be sent directly to: Serenity Funeral Home of Southern Utah 1316 S 400 E #A3 St. George, Utah, 84790 (435) 986-2085 www.serenitystg.com

Michael Patrick "Mike-Mike" McGrath

March 4, 1953 - March 7, 2025