This park is named in memory of Private Francis Masterson McGarrell.
Francis Masterson McGarrell grew up on Piccadilly Street in London ON. In 1942, he joined the military and following his initial training, was assigned as an instructor at A-20 Canadian Army Training Centre Red Deer, responsible for trades training for the Royal Canadian Army Service Corps. He remained in Red Deer for 2 years, attaining the rank of Sergeant but decided to relinquish his rank to be transfered overseas. He was assigned to the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry (RHLI) and remained with them throughout the European campaign. He was killed in action on 2 March 1945, as the RHLI fought in the Kalkar-Xanten area of Germany. Private Francis McGarrell is buried in the Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, 10km south-east of Nijmegan.
