Edna L. McGath

Edna L. McGath, 96, of St. Joseph, passed away at her home on Tuesday, October 27, 2020. A private family graveside service will be held at Rose Hill Cemetery. A Celebration of Edna’s Life will also be held at a later date when health care concerns have been alleviated. Memorial contributions may be made to the Maud Preston Palenske Memorial Library, 500 Market St., St. Joseph; the Benton Harbor Soup Kitchen, 233 Michigan St., Benton Harbor or Caring Circle, 4025 Health Park Ln., St. Joseph. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Edna was born on November 22, 1923, to Edward & Minnie (Wyman) Grau. She was a member of an extended sand rabbit family on Pine St. in St. Joseph. She graduated from Berrien Springs High School. On June 19, 1943, Edna married the love of her life Max “Bill” McGath in St. Joseph prior to the start of World War II and didn’t see him for almost 3 years. She worked for the hospital pharmacy and sold antiques in various locations in the area. But her favorite job of all was raising her family. Edna enjoyed traveling with Bill across the U.S. and Europe, wintering in Florida with John and Sharon, fishing in the Florida Keys, and family trips with Barb and Mike to Martha’s Vineyard and camping at Ludington State Park. Enda also loved to read and visit the local library almost every week. Edna was a member of the Questers and the Michigan/Indiana Thimble Society. Edna was involved in child development, she was a Den Mother and Girl Scout leader, involved in Trinity Lutheran School and Church. Edna and her daughter, Jo, enjoyed playing bingo, visiting the local casino, and spending time with Jo’s two sons, Jason and Joshua. Edna is survived by her children Mike (Barb) McGath of Benton Harbor and Sharon (John) Matthews of St. Joseph; two grandchildren ( Jason Smith, Joshua Smith (Katie) ; one step-grandchild; (Jon Matthews (Jesse)) and five great-grandchildren (Dakota Smith, Cole Smith, Josiah Smith, Langlei Smith and Carter Smith). Edna was preceded in death by her parents; Husband Bill McGath; daughter Jo Kristine Smith; and siblings, Edward and Gerald Grau. Special thanks to Hospice At Home, and all of her home health aide team members.