Robert Grimes

Robert DuWayne Grimes, born September 18, 1922 in Harlan, Kansas, died peacefully in his sleep at his home in Chico, February 4, 2012. After 30 years of teaching high school English and Journalism in the Bay Area, Bob and his wife, Fran moved to Chico from San Mateo in 1989. They enjoyed their home, being near their son, visits with their daughters, and Chico's wonderful growing climate. Bob and Fran treasured their trips to Europe, Japan, and Hawaii. He was an avid golfer, gardener, and sports fan. Bob joined the Army Air Corps as a Private in his senior year at York College, York, Nebraska. He later reached the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the USAF reserves. He came home from World War II and married his college sweetheart. They celebrated 64 years of married life until she passed in 2009. He devotedly cared for her in her final years with Alzheimer's, making sure she was able to stay in the home that meant so much to both of them. A man of humility and quiet dignity, he influenced all who knew him with his calm, non-judgmental, and gracious ways. Through the loss of his only son, his wife's declining illness, and several health crises of his own, he kept a great attitude of gratitude and forgiveness. This was inspirational to all who came in contact with Bob. Bob is predeceased by four of his five sisters; his wife, Frances, and his son, Steven. His remaining family - sister, Ernestein Heide; daughters, Nancy Robinson and her husband Jim, Laurie Grounds and her husband Ben; grandchildren, Kalian, Ethan, Alicia, Dustin, and Keina, and great-grandchildren, Kyler, Kole, Kaden, and Cameron - will miss him deeply. We will feel his loss forever, but know he is reunited with loved ones who have gone before, and is now playing endless rounds of 18 holes, pain free! His family wishes to acknowledge Eleanor Chambers, Pat Besser, and Kathlyn Myers for the wonderful companionship and care he received in his last year, enabling him to stay in his home and enjoy his life to the fullest. In lieu of flowers, donations in his name to St. John's Episcopal Church, or to the Alzheimer's Association , would be appreciated. Services will be Sunday, February 19, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. at St John's Episcopal Church on Flower Ave, Chico.