McGrail, Richard Alfred
Principal
McGRAIL, Richard Alfred
September 2, 1932 – December 26, 2020
It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Dick (Richard) McGrail, aged 88 years. After a brief battle with late-stage cancer, he passed at the Lakeshore General Hospital, on December 26, 2020. Devoted father and grandfather, he is deeply mourned by his children Terry, Dawn (Scott Jamieson) and Susan (J Lopez), his grandchildren (Alec, Tara, Molly, Jacob, Jessie, Jackie and Josie). His many friends at the Cambridge, bridge clubs and social groups will also miss his enthusiastic spirit.
Son of Terence McGrail and Dorothy (née Greenford), Dick grew up in Montreal, where he nourished his passion for baseball, badminton and basketball. He started his teaching career at Queen’s in 1956 and joined the staff at Beaconsfield High School in 1958. Within several years of teaching, Dick assumed guidance responsibilities, then administration for the Lakeshore School Board at Lindsay Place and Beaconsfield High School. He will be remembered by students and staff for his leadership anchored in students being offered possibilities to access their potential. He ran clubs, coached basketball, volleyball and badminton, and he organized many extra-curricular trips to Europe. Dick also treasured his final years at Spring Garden Elementary before retiring in 1989.
After retirement, he spent most of his time socializing: through travel, golf and playing bridge. Dick was always sharing the coincidences that brought him in contact with people from his past – former students, staff and friends. Dick especially looked forward to Beaconsfield High School reunions.
Dick instilled in his children the love of golf and sports, card games, travel, theatre and enjoyment of life. We are thankful for his travel opportunities throughout the years – his trip around the world, his memorable bridge cruises, his innumerable trips with children and many vacations to his winter homes in Florida.
As per his request, there will be no public service. We will hold a celebration of life when circumstances permit larger gatherings. At this time, you are invited to raise a glass in remembrance or to share a kind word with the family.
We thank all his caregivers and health professionals who worked with him in recent years and special thanks to the Lakeshore General staff of 4th and 3rd floors for their commitment to high quality care. In lieu of flowers, you are welcome to make a donation to the Lakeshore General Hospital or a charity of your choosing.
Published in the Montreal Gazette on December 31, 2020
