Richard E. “Dick” DeGroff
September 21st, 1942 - October 28th, 2022
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Dick's Obituary
Richard E. “Dick” DeGroff, 80, of St. Joseph passed away on Friday, October 28, 2022 at The Willows Assisted Living. A private family service will be held at a later date. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
Dick was born on September 21, 1942, in Grand Rapids, to Robert & Constance (Phillips) DeGroff. He graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1960 and continued his education by attending Findlay College in Ohio where he competed on their football team. Following college, Dick returned home to work at his grandfather’s RC Cola Distribution Center throughout the 1970’s. He then changed his career path and became a realtor. He worked for many years with Jung Agency as well as being the founder of his own business, DeGroff Properties. Dick enjoyed going to his favorite restaurant, Tosi’s, and recreating their recipes for his family & friends. He also loved attending his children’s sporting events to cheer on the St. Joe Bears. For many years, Dick was a member of the SJHS Booster Club. He even enjoyed announcing some of the JV football games. Dick loved watching college football, specifically MSU Spartans, being out on Lake Michigan, and playing racquetball.
Dick is survived by his children, Gretchen (Roger) Wilson of Orland Park, IL, Stephanie (Fiancé, Wyatt Godines) Zabavski of Mattawan, and Ross (Shana) DeGroff of Northville, MI; six grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and former spouse, Linda Willadsen. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Scott DeGroff; and great-grandparents, JR & Florence Phillips.
Dick was born on September 21, 1942, in Grand Rapids, to Robert & Constance (Phillips) DeGroff. He graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1960 and continued his education by attending Findlay College in Ohio where he competed on their football team. Following college, Dick returned home to work at his grandfather’s RC Cola Distribution Center throughout the 1970’s. He then changed his career path and became a realtor. He worked for many years with Jung Agency as well as being the founder of his own business, DeGroff Properties. Dick enjoyed going to his favorite restaurant, Tosi’s, and recreating their recipes for his family & friends. He also loved attending his children’s sporting events to cheer on the St. Joe Bears. For many years, Dick was a member of the SJHS Booster Club. He even enjoyed announcing some of the JV football games. Dick loved watching college football, specifically MSU Spartans, being out on Lake Michigan, and playing racquetball.
Dick is survived by his children, Gretchen (Roger) Wilson of Orland Park, IL, Stephanie (Fiancé, Wyatt Godines) Zabavski of Mattawan, and Ross (Shana) DeGroff of Northville, MI; six grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and former spouse, Linda Willadsen. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Scott DeGroff; and great-grandparents, JR & Florence Phillips.
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