Joseph McGrane Obituary

I have known Joe since the early sixties, when he and Barb started dating. The four of us have shared many fond
memories of those early days. After raising our families we were able to reconnect more frequently.
May Joe be at peace with God in heaven and be waiting with open arms when we all join him.

Walkin' Stick Joe

I first met Joe about eight or nine years ago by doing some odd jobs for his neighbors and friends.

He and Barb had a couple giant arborvitae bushed blocking a utility box that would need an annual trimming. That job turned into a deck stain job, some minor landscaping work, and a house wash or two.

Every time we would get together was like getting the inside scoop from a master who was on his way to do a Ted Talk on the topics of peace, understanding, caring, giving, inspiration, and humility.

We really enjoyed our frequent neighborhood "walk n' talks."

Sharing some highlights of life's experiences as we walked, Joe was a clear-eyed inspiration, as well as a gifted story teller.

We talked a bit about life on the farm, his many adventures with Barb and the kids, camping, giving back, music, and the joy they found with his family and friends.

Throughout his years of poor health, while our walks may have gotten a little slower, his determination to forge ahead never wavered. I could go on, and on...

I'll tell you something
you all might know
There's never been a man
like "Walkin' Stick Joe."

My sincere condolences to Barb and family.

It is hard to find the right words when the memories span my lifetime. Joe brought so much joy to this world. Forever grateful for the friendship he had with my parents all the way to the end. He will be deeply missed.

Laura and Brian. So sorry for your loss. He will always be around you. Especially when you least expect him to be there

This description of Joseph reminds me of my father Jimmy Mc Grane. In many ways they were similar. May Joseph RIP. Ireland

My sincere sympathy to Barb and the family. After high school, Joe and I served in the Navy. We attended Electronics School at Treasure Island, California at the same time and met up later in Japan numerous times. After that, we lived in different states and countries so didn't see each other often. Joe was a great and dedicated man who accomplished almost everything he set out to do.

My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. I remember coming to the house with Patty and being warmly welcomed by Mr. McGrane. Extra kids in the house didn't seem to be a concern - the more the merrier!
I am also very sorry to find out about Patty's passing. Over the years we lost contact as our lives got in the way with husbands, children and distance but I have never forgotten the wonderful times we shared in high school and college. My thoughts and prayers will be with you all.

Joe contributed to my needs of wisdom, support, empathy, love and compassion. Am forever grateful. His last words to me at Easter—“Am a prodigal son going home.” His humility is and was beyond comprehension. Love you Joe. Mike LaFrance

Sending prayers to John & all of the McGrane family!

Joe, Barb and I became friends in 2003 when we were neighbors at Ramblers Rest. We shared a love of music and he taught me a lot about Celtic music. He brought many tunes and songs to our music program. Joe started our acoustic jam which still continues to this day. We will keep his memory alive.

I first med him when he was selling Child Craft books and was at our door...naturally I bought a whole set..who could resist him? thought of him often over the years.....he will have a wonderful time in Heaven....a life well lived....

To Barb and family, you have a personal saint in Heaven. Joe was a truly holy man and served the Lord well. And because of that, a wonderful husband, father and friend. I so enjoyed working with him on some projects at St. Patrick's. He was always calm in a single package. I am so sorry for your loss.

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. Joe was a wonderful man of God. Loved to hear him play the dulcemer. Barb, you and your family are in our prayers. God Bless, Slim and Lucille Uncapher

My condolences to Barb and family. I learned so much from Joe. He was an amazing man. I remember the folk group. He was always soft spoken.