Lloyd McGrath

Lloyd McGrath was born September 22, 1939, in Dubuque, Iowa, and passed away peacefully just before sunrise on January 7. His life was one of deep faith, devoted family love, and extraordinary kindness- generously shared.

Lloyd married the love of his life Ann on October 4, 1958, and shared 58 years of marriage filled with faith, laughter, hard work and time with family and friends. They were devoted members of St. Ann’s Catholic Church, where Lloyd continued to find peace and purpose through daily Mass after Ann’s passing.

Lloyd often said he knew God’s purpose for his life: “I am His Helper on earth.” He lived that calling fully- building community and love wherever he went.

For 46 years, Lloyd was a loyal employee of Trausch/Heileman Baking, proudly known as “the Bread Man.” He never missed what mattered most, always showing up as his sons’ biggest fan. That same enthusiasm carried into his love for Iowa football, North Scott athletics, and the many concerts, ball games, celebrations of his grandchildren.

Lloyd joined the local Eldridge Fitness Center and developed community one walking lap, one mile on the bike and one “Diet Dr Pepper” at a time. He built life-long deep friendships with everyone he met which expanded with the expansion of the new local YMCA.

Canasta and Euchre were his love language. He loved to win and he did so often. And in the time spent playing with him, one could not help loving him more and more.

Lloyd was truly everyone’s friend. From the YMCA to card tables, coffee mornings, and his legendary Friday night garage gatherings, he welcomed all with warmth and inclusion. In his final months, the outpouring of visits from friends and family was a testament to the love he gave so freely throughout his life.

Services will be held at St. Ann Catholic Church, 16550 290th St., Long Grove, Iowa, with visitation on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, from 4:00–6:00 p.m., and Thursday, January 15, from 9:00–10:00 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m., with burial following at 1:30 p.m. at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Dubuque, IA.

Blessed to carry on Lloyd’s love and legacy are his children: Tom McGrath (fiancé Lee), Dennis (Sue) McGrath, and Kevin (Laura) McGrath.

He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Morgan (Derek) Bergman, Tommy John McGrath, Alexandra (John) Romanelli, Kelsey (Mike) Olsen, Courtney McGrath, Jimmy (Hannah) McGrath, Jacob (Katlyn) McGrath, Justin McGrath, and Jeremy McGrath (fiancé Katherine). He was also blessed with six great-grandchildren: Henry, Alice, Penny Bergman; Johnny Romanelli; Hudson McGrath; Maddox McGrath.

Lloyd is further survived by his sisters Rosemary (Tom) Remakel and Mary Sue (Dave) Leifker, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends who will forever carry his memory.

Lloyd was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 58 years, Ann McGrath; his siblings Andy McGrath, Sharon and John Koch, Shirley Scheller, and Katie Remakel; and his parents, Thomas J. McGrath and Francis (née Bahl) McGrath.

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