Philip H. McGonegal, Sr. (2-9-09 to 3-4-84)

Today is the birthday of Philip H. McGonegal, Sr. If he were still alive he'd be 105 today. It is sad to think that he died nearly 30 years ago. He fathered "We Six",  pictured below. He is missed by all.

From my sister Mary, writing to Bernard & Alice Susanne today:

"Hi  There,    As  I  was  lying  in  bed  this  'morn  thinking  of  Grandpa,   (my  Dad)  &  realizing  today  is  his  105th  Birthday  &  I'm  sure  he  is  celebrating  with  my  Mom  &  yours  today.   I  really  do  find  contentment  &  happiness  when  I  know  they  are  all  together.  I'll  bet  Birthdays  in heaven  are  just  great!    Happy  Birthday,   Dad  /  Grandpa."


My sister Ginny wrote this to her kids today:

"Good Morning,

Grandpa was born just a mere 105 years ago today in Brewster, New York, the second of the six children born to Cecelia Murphy McGonegal and John Robert McGonegal.   He lived to the age of 75.  He was a great character who was happy to have lived as long as he did;  a favorite comment of his was "after I'm gone, people can say, he died, but he lived".  His was a rather a complicated life, not short of disappointments, and his greatest joy was his family.  He had a heart bigger than he was likely to let you know, with  a great capacity to love.  Those of you who were lucky enough to have known him can probably come up with your own memories.  Those of you who never had a chance to know him - well, you missed something special.  Please honor his memory by telling your children something about their Great-Grandfather. (just the good stuff), and know that he loved you all.

If you want to  toast his memory, I recommend Coke, as Grandpa never drank.

Love, 

Mom"