Robert Arthur Groce

Robert Arthur Groce of Portland, Oregon, passed away on February 11, 2015. Robert was born on November 1, 1922 to his parents Arthur and Edith (Lidgate) Groce, in Portland, Oregon. Robert was raised in Springdale, and he attended Corbett Community Church. He graduated from Corbett High School in 1940. After graduation, he joined the Army Air Corps and served in WWII. Robert was a man with many passions and hobbies. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, working on cars, truck driving and flying planes around the country. He was a proud “lifetime benefactor golden eagle member” of the NRA, and he also received a citizens award from Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office.

Robert was a man who truly loved life; he was always happy, easy to please, and he loved to eat. His favorite restaurant was Saylor’s Country Kitchen, and during his time as President of the NW Auto and Truck Wreckers Association, the meeting’s took place there. Robert was the owner of Groce Auto Wrecking Parts for several years, and it is currently being leased. It was through this fine establishment that Robert first met his lovely wife Jean in the 1960’s, although they were not married until many years later. Robert will be remembered for being a man of integrity and strong character, protective, above reproach with a word as good as gold. He was a man who would do anything to help a fellow human in need. Robert took great pride in the fact that he built 8 houses throughout the city of Portland, as well as the duplex that he lived in; it is currently being rented. He took pride in these buildings, and he often drove past them to see that they were still in good use and well maintained.

Robert is survived by his wife; Jean Groce; daughters; Linda Burfitt and Nancy Wilhite; six grandchildren and five great grandchildren. He was a wonderful man, and he will be missed.