Gary Conrad Grothe Sr, 80, passed away in Dunedin, Florida on February 28, 2025. Born on September 13, 1944, in Chicago, Illinois, Gary moved to Largo, Florida, with his family in 1956. He graduated from Largo High School in 1962, where he was an active participant in the orchestra and the madrigals.
Gary proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, enlisting in 1962. He served with honor during the Vietnam War, where he remained until 1966. His service was a testament to his dedication and love for his country.
Gary’s love for his family defined his life. He is survived by his son, Gary Grothe Jr.; his daughter-in-law, Carol Ann; his grandchildren, Joshua, Matthew, Stephen, Hannah, and Graziella; and his four great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his four sisters, Renie, Janice, Lori, and Sandy.
A committal honoring Gary’s life and service to his country will be held on March 24, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Bay Pines National Cemetery. The family welcomes all who knew and loved Gary to join them in paying their respects.
Gary will be deeply missed.
You were a good brother and such a gentle spirit. We will miss you…Until we meet again in our heavenly new home. Love Always, & Forever, your sister Sandy
So many memories since we were kids in Chicago, my precious brother. You were a gentle soul that, in your late years especially, everyone that met you liked you and many said “I love Gary”. You’ll be very missed until I get to be with you again in the presence of our Lord. Love you so much, Gary.
My sincere condolences to Gary’s family and friends. We were all blessed to know such a kind, cool, calm, fun, and loving man.
We love you Gary. You will live on in our hearts forever.
Love and Blessings,
Your Friend LaShanda
I will miss my Big Bro here on this side of heaven. You were my bookend in the siblings, you first, me last in the line up. I’m so thankful that we had a brother in the mix of us girls. You were so proud of your son Gary and loved your daughter in love much, and what about all those grand children and great grandchildren! What a reunion we will one day have in heaven. We’ve sang all our lives together and will also sing again. For those of you who knew Gary later in his life, he studied the Bible with his sweet friends and loved them much also. Thank you all for reaching out to the family. Until we meet again. Love you Bro
My condolences and love to Gary’s family. While I did not get the honor to meet him I know through his family what a loved and beautiful person he was. Thank you for your service Gary. And to his family and friends, my prayers and thoughts are with you. Lori and Roger Brennan
Will always Cherish my childhood memories of Gary’s warm kind heart. He always made our visits welcoming and fun. Till we meet again Gary❤️🙏
We are very sorry for your loss and very thankful for your brother’s service.
Dear Renie, Janice, Lori, Sandy and families,
Your love for and devotion to your big brother Gary is inspirational and very much admired by all of your friends and family members. His love for all of you was a gift that you will cherish with every memory and family story. I’m so sorry for your loss of this sweet brother. “To be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord” is his assurance and yours. There will be a grand reunion in heaven for the Grothe family some day.
Lovingly,
Pat D’Andrea
Family is the most important part of ours lives. I have so many good memories with you all… I do have a favorite memory with Gary, although he wasn’t to thrilled with my shenanigans as a young child. I love you all and send my love.
In Lieu of Flowers donate to Homeless Vets