Obituary of William H. McGarvey

William H. McGarvey, 90, passed away peacefully at his home on June 11, 2017. Born in Mt. Union, PA, he was the son of the late Thomas and Alma McGarvey.  Bill was a 1943 graduate of Mt. Union High School and following graduation, proudly defended his country in the United States Navy from 1944-1946. After his discharge from the Navy, he went on to obtain his bachelor’s degree from the Milwaukee School of Engineering.

On December 18, 1948, William married his beloved wife Patricia. The couple moved to the Schenectady area in 1952, where they raised their family. Bill retired from General Electric as managing engineer in large motors and generators after 29 years of service. Following his retirement from General Electric, he worked for Emerson Motors in Milford, CT, retiring after several years. Bill was a hard worker and enjoyed fixing things around his home. Most importantly he cherished his family and especially loved the time he spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors, in addition to his beloved wife of 68 years Patricia L. McGarvey, are his children William D. (Frances) McGarvey, James A. (Jane) McGarvey and Beverly D. (Richard) Keating. He is the cherished grandfather of Michael (Jude) Keating, Shawn (Danielle) Keating, Ashley (Justin) Evers, Alexis (Ron) Shaffer, Nadalie (Matthew) Barendse, Julia (Matthew VanPatton) McGarvey and Stephanie McGarvey. Also surviving are his great-grandchildren Grace Keating, Liam Keating, Declan Keating, Jackson Evers, John Shaffer and David Shaffer.  Several nieces, nephews and other family members also survive. Bill was predeceased by his siblings.

Funeral services will be held privately for Bill. Interment with military honors will take place at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery.
Memorial contributions in William’s name may be made to The Community Hospice, 310 S. Manning Boulevard, Albany, NY 12208.