Denis McGrail - My Dad
Yorkshire Evening Post 27th July 2004
McGrail Denis Leslie
July 23, Peacefully in hospital aged 86 years beloved husband of Joan and devoted dad of Stephen. Will be sadly missed.
Funeral service and cremation at Lawnswood Crematorium on Thursday 29 at 3pm. Family flowers only please. Donations in lieu if desired to Guide Dogs for the Blind for which purpose a plate will be provided.
Obituary
Denis was born on the 29th May 1918, the eldest of two brothers. He went to St Anne's school and then St Michael's Catholic College. He was an accomplished and medal winning schoolboy footballer.
After leaving school Denis started work as an apprentice electrician, working on the construction of Leeds Civic Hall in 1933. Much later he was a privileged guest at ceremonies to mark both the 50th and 70th anniversaries of the opening of that fine building.
Denis then worked for two and a half years on the Brotherton Library before being approached by Leeds University who asked him to come and work for them. Apart from the war years he worked at the university until he retired as Electrical Services Engineer in 1982.
22 hours after war was declared Denis joined the Leeds Rifles. He moved around a lot during the early years of the war before spending two and a half years in Assam and Burma. During his time in Burma, Denis a keen cyclist, became a founder member of the Burma Road Cycling Club. Denis was demobbed in 1946 and returned to work at the University.
It was through his love of cycling that he met Joan, whom he married in 1948. During 1951 they settled in what was to be their home and a good few years later Stephen came along. Denis was a caring and loving husband and dad.
He had excellent DIY skills. Amongst other things he installed central heating and fitted wardrobes in the family home and was able to turn his hand to making and repairing almost anything for anybody.
After retirement Denis and Joan enjoyed many holidays abroad, including a trip round the world stopping off in New Zealand, where he was able to see his brother, Peter, for the first time in over 40 years. In all, Denis visited around 40 countries during his life.
He enjoyed his garden and also playing golf, initially being a member at Roundhay and then joining the Sandmoor Club where he had been a member for many years.
Denis was a great support to Joan in her charity work, always making himself and his car available.
Joan and Stephen are most grateful for the support they have received from neighbours and friends at this time.
Remember Denis as you knew him, as husband, as dad, as relative, friend and neighbour. Be thankful that his suffering is now over and continue to live your lives as he would wish you to do.
More than 100 people attended Denis's funeral and others sent apologies. Joan & Stephen received more than 80 cards, letters and emails and they would like to thank all relatives, friends and neighbours for the kindness and support given at this time.
Three hundred and twenty pounds was collected for the chosen charity.
