Greg McGrail

As friends and family members will certainly agree, Greg McGrail was truly a light in the lives of all who knew him, making each day just a little brighter with his warm and outgoing personality. His solid work ethic allowed him to provide for all who depended on him, and there was nothing he wouldn’t do for his loved ones. One of the friendliest guys you would ever meet, no one remained a stranger to Greg for very long, and he cherished every moment spent with his family and friends. Although he had his struggles as people often do, he never lost sight of what truly mattered through all the challenges that came his way. Deeply loved, Greg will be dearly missed.

The 1960s are remembered as years of great change for those living in the United States of America. The civil rights movement was in full swing, and the young JFK was elected president and later assassinated, a tragic event that would leave its mark in history for generations to come. It was during this influential time that Greg made his entrance into the world. Born on August 16, 1965, he spent his earliest years living with his mother’s parents in Connecticut while his father was away serving in the United States Navy. Greg soon became an older brother to his two younger sisters, Carrie and Stephanie. From a young age, he was an amazing big brother, and though the McGrail siblings could clash at times, he was very protective of his sisters.

Growing up, Greg was a typical young man of his generation in many ways. The family settled down in the Kalamazoo area, where he was raised for the remainder of his formative years. Whenever he looked back on his childhood, Greg would have fond memories of vacations to visit family in Connecticut and Christmas Eve parties hosted at their home. His mother passed her love for cooking down to him, a passion he would carry with him throughout the rest of his life.

Greg attended local schools, including St. Joseph Elementary School and Hackett Catholic High School. He was social and charismatic, the kind of kid who got along with everyone. Greg participated on the high school diving team. He and his best friend, Bruce Fry, were closer than brothers. Greg worked a variety of odd jobs to earn money here and there. He graduated from Hackett in 1983, eager to see what the future held.

Not to be forgotten was the moment Greg spotted the young woman who would quickly become the love of his life. Her name was Susan Rossi, and the two first met at the Corel Gables Lounge. Greg was immediately smitten, but initially, Sue was not quite so impressed. However, their paths soon crossed again. This time, Greg turned up the charm and was able to sweep Sue away for a date at the local Denny’s. Over the next five years of dating, the two fell head over heels in love. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives together, Greg and Susan were married at St. Joseph Church on August 27 of 1988.

It wasn’t long before Greg’s family began to grow. He and Sue were overjoyed to welcome their firstborn son, Tyler, into their hearts and home. Amanda was born nearly six years later, completing their family. Greg was so happy to become a father, and he especially loved passing his love for sports down to his children. He coached many of Tyler’s sports teams and was extremely active in coaching at Milwood Little League and later the travel ball team as well. Fishing was one of Greg’s greatest joys. He would often take his son, Tyler, with him; sharing his passion and creating memories together. He loved taking Tyler to NASCAR shows, and he would often take both of the kids to airshows and balloon fests in the area. Fiercely protective of his children, Greg once broke his thumbs trying to stop a sled because Amanda was screaming. Even as his battles with his health began, born from a back injury, Greg loved his family unconditionally and considered his loved ones to be his greatest treasure.

There were many things that brought Greg joy throughout his life. He loved his rock music and was an avid fan of AC/DC, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and Pink Floyd, to name a few. Greg even named his kids after some of his favorite legends in rock, and while Sue was pregnant with Amanda, he would put headphones on her stomach to blast some good old rock n roll. He deeply enjoyed catching up with friends, usually over a drink. Greg was a huge fan of University of Michigan sports teams and of the Chicago Cubs, especially Sammy Sosa. He liked watching local bands perform at Presidential Bar. Greg would oversee the monthly poker games, and even though he tended to make stupid bets, he still usually found a way to win.

When reflecting on the life of Greg McGail, it is easy to celebrate a man who loved others so well. His willingness to care for others knew no bounds, and he truly made the most of every blessing he was given. A husband, father, and grandfather to one, Greg was so grateful for the gift of his family and took every chance to hold them close. He looked forward to the moment he would be reunited with his beloved Sue. Although he is already so greatly missed, Greg leaves behind a priceless collection of memories that his loved ones will forever keep near and dear to their hearts.

Surviving are Greg’s children: Tyler (girlfriend Jordan) McGrail and Amanda (Noah) Hedenland; granddaughter, Brielle; parents, Dennis and Ada McGrail; sisters, Carrie (Fritz) Cramer and Stephanie McGrail; many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Greg is preceded in death by his wife, Sue.

Celebrate Greg’s life online by sharing stories and photos on his dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900.