George Robert Groves

ROCHESTER, MINN: George Robert Groves, 88, passed away January 7, 2012 at St. Marys Hospital. George was born October 7, 1923 in Newburgh, NY to John T. and Margaret (Childs) Groves. He married Evelyn Weygant in Newburgh, NY on August 31, 1943. George was a member and Trustee of Christ United Methodist Church. He was on the board for Game Haven Council of Boy Scouts, on the Board of Directors for First Bank, Minnesota First and Franklin Heating. One of George's proudest moments was when he served as Chairman of the Board at Rochester Methodist and Charter House and was involved in the merger of Methodist, Mayo Clinic, Charter House and St. Marys Hospital. George was a Navy veteran, proudly serving his country on the submarine USS Thresher during WWII. He loved golfing, boating, water skiing and was an avid walker. He enjoyed traveling to places like Australia and New Zealand and taking walks on the beach in Daytona where he and Evelyn spent 28 winters. He worked as plant manager for IBM and retired with over 30 years of service. George's main love in life was his family. George was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather. George is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Evelyn; children, Sharon Schwarz, Gail Groves, and Jeff (Lynne) Groves; grandchildren, Lisa (Chris) Durand, Eric (Jenne) Schwarz, Sean Groves, andBryan Groves; great-grandchildren, Taylor, Kyle, Maddie, Cassie, and Nate. George was preceded in death by 2 brothers and 1 sister. Visitation will be held 4:00-7:00pm Thursday, January 12, 2012 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester, MN. A memorial service will be held 2:00pm Friday, January 13, 2012 at Christ United Methodist Church 400 5th Ave SW, Rochester with visitation from 1:00pm until time of service at the church. The Rev. Nancy Wheeler Handlon will be officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society PO Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718.