Obituary of Joseph Gregory McGrail

Joseph Gregory "Joe" McGrail, 64, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2025, in Victoria Hospital in London, Ontario, after suffering from abdominal cancer for several months. Born on March 26, 1961 in Chatham, Ontario, Joe was the youngest child of Frederick McGrail and Elizabeth McCormick McGrail, both predeceased.

Joe began life on his family's farm in Dover Township, Kent County moving to Chatham at the age of one, when his family established McGrail Farm Equipment. Joe later attended the Vineridge Academy in Niagara-on-the-Lake and St. Clair College. Joe spent several independent years in Surrey, British Columbia before returning to Ontario in the early 2000s. Joe then worked as a forklift operator in Brampton and Toronto and volunteered for the Salvation Army.

Known as quiet and self-sufficient, Joe embraced solitude yet was always generous and deeply caring toward friends in need. Joe was long-time supporter of several charities including World Vision Canada.

An avid camper and fisherman, Joe appreciated the simple joys of nature and outdoor adventures. Through his inner strength and determination, Joe was able to overcome his personal challenges and was living independently in a senior residence in London when he passed.

Joe is survived by sisters Patricia McGrail of Brampton and Mary Jean McGrail (Mullane Cartier) of Delaware, Ohio. He is predeceased by brothers Paul McGrail (Debbie) and William McGrail (Dana). Joe was attached to his nieces and nephews: Erin McGrail, Jamie McGrail, Jordan McGrail, Gillian McGrail (deceased), Tom Giesen, Gary Giesen, Kevin Giesen, Nolan Mullane, Jaclyn Cartier, Elizabeth Cartier, and Klarissa McGrail.

Special thanks to the staff of Victoria Hospital in London for the excellent care given to Joe and the support workers who assisted Joe throughout his life.

Cremation has taken place; interment will be in Maple Leaf Cemetery in Chatham.

A Celebration of Life is being planned, to emphasize joy and treasured memories.

If you care to make a donation in Joe’s memory, gifts to World Vision Canada or the London Health Services Foundation would be especially appreciated.