Mary Minter McGrath

Mary Minter McGrath, age 82, passed away on January 2, 2023, and her kind, gentle presence and beautiful smile will be forever missed by all who knew her. Mary was born on May 27, 1940, to Edith Brabrook Minter and Walter Scott Minter in Oak Park, IL.

She was raised in Oak Park and enjoyed playing tennis at the River Forest Tennis Club. After attending Indiana University for two years, she married and eventually settled in Tower Lakes, IL to raise her two children. She remained close with five of her best friends from grade school and they delighted in watching their families grow, giving bridal and baby showers for all their kids over the years, and having long lunches to stay up to date.

She was devoted to her grandchildren who brought her so much joy, and she considered it an honor to spend time with them and support them in everything they did. Mary was an enthusiastic cheerleader at countless soccer and baseball games, and she was an integral part of every milestone.

Mary loved celebrations and ensured that every birthday had balloon bouquets, ice cream cakes, and good white wine. Every year she dyed Easter Eggs with her grandchildren and surprised them with Easter baskets. Mary also enthusiastically looked forward to Thanksgiving at her niece Libby’s house and was always at her family’s house bright and early on Christmas to watch the kids open their gifts.

Mary was a truly beautiful soul who loved unconditionally, and saw the good in every person and situation, no matter what.

Mary is survived by her daughter, Kathleen McGrath Connolly (Sean), her son, Tom McGrath, her grandchildren, Julia Connolly and Sasha Connolly, her sister Nancy Klein, her niece Libby Hoff (Mike), her nephew, Rob Klein (Sarah), and her great-nephews and niece.

Mary was a passionate animal lover, leaving behind her beloved cat Molly. Memorial donations can be made in her name to Orphans of the Storm Animal Shelter in Riverwoods, IL.

Services will be private, and the family will hold a celebration of life at Kathleen's residence for all who loved and cared about Mary on April 1, 2023.