Michael T. McGrath, whose wisdom far exceeded his 59 years of age, passed away peacefully while surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, April 1, 2021 at Northwest Texas Hospital in Amarillo, Texas. He was born on April 22, 1961 to Clifford and Wanda McGrath in Fort Dix, New Jersey.
In 1985, Mike moved from Safford, Arizona to Texas to work in the oil industry and in 1986, he met his soul mate, Paula Greene. They married on March 21, 1987 and had recently celebrated their 34th anniversary. Having been employed in the oilfield for over 40 years, he spent the last 17 years as an Engineering Specialist for the Railroad Commission of Texas. As a result, he laid claim to have been to every pumpjack in the Texas Panhandle at least once and was known as an oilfield legend in this area. Mike was an incredibly hard worker, very loyal and determined; therefore, three words not in his vocabulary were “never” as well as “I can’t”. Able to accomplish any task, he was definitely a Jack-of-all-trades. No matter how large or small the situation at hand, he could always find the necessary tools or parts needed to repair in his “handy” stash of odds and ends as one of his favorite go-to phrases was “Be Prepared”.
Being a patriot was very important to Mike. He wholeheartedly loved this beautiful country and strongly believed that each person was responsible for their role in the success of America. Another significant aspect of Mike was the ability to tell stories, not just random stories, but tidbits of history that he felt important to pass down from generation to generation. He was a history buff and a collector of all things, but each treasure had a story behind it.
Mike may have been a little different and set apart from the crowd, but he didn’t mind and actually embraced it as God made him unique. He enjoyed playing games such as chess, monopoly and poker and felt it important to teach his children as well. Mike was a gardener, beekeeper and an avid collector of oilfield memorabilia, especially old metal signs. He had a heart of gold and was willing to help anyone in need. He will be missed by the many who knew him.
He was greeted in heaven by his parents, Clifford and Wanda.
He has left behind to carry on his stories and legacy, his wife, Paula McGrath of Pampa; five children, Cecilia Evans and husband Clint of Buffalo, Texas, Royce McGrath and wife Cindy of Amarillo, Elizabeth McGrath of Pampa, Laura McGrath of Pampa, Marshall McGrath and wife Bailey of Abilene; two sisters, Audrey Fuller and husband Ken of Virdon, New Mexico, Peggy Campbell and husband Brad of Stephenville, Texas; two granddaughters, Camdyn, Collins and numerous nieces and nephews as well as many extended family members.
Celebration of Life Funeral services are scheduled for 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 6, 2021 at Trinity Fellowship Church with Pastor Mike Borger officiating. Interment will follow in Memory Gardens Cemetery. The family has entrusted the care of their loved one to Winegeart Funeral Home.
If memorials are a preference, the family suggests they be made in honor of Mike to The Pregnancy Support Center and Hope House Maternity Home, 210 North Ward Street, Pampa, TX 79065 or the Texas Oilfield Angels, P.O. Box 127, Henderson, TX 75653 or www.texasoilfieldangels.com.
