Born December 5 1932, in Burlington, IA, he was the son of Ralph Charles and Johanna Cordula (Albrecht) Grothe.
Leo proudly served his country as a Marine during the Korean War, serving from 1951-54 and was the recipient of several awards, including a purple heart. He was employed in Washington DC by the World Bank as a disbursement processor, often traveling to South America. He relocated to Florida in 2002 and was known to keep his binoculars handy, whether watching a baseball game or looking at the ocean.
He was preceded in death by his parents; six sisters; Helen Mary Grothe, Virginia Timmerman, Frances Bruce, Mary Walgren, Joanne Eklund, and Catherine (Kay) Fisher and his two brothers; James Grothe and Mark Joseph Grothe, and his stepmother, Olga Fitchner.
Leo was kind, loving & understanding. He was especially proud & passionate about his family. He was committed to his strong faith in Jesus Christ, often sharing his knowledge of the Bible. He had a lifelong love of sports, especially the Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team.
Survivors include his loving wife Sandra Grothe, his brother David (wife Barbara), daughters; Cynthia Grothe and Nancy Grothe, sons Mark Grothe (partner Kathy),Christopher Grothe (wife Marybeth), David Grothe (wife Louisa) and Jason Grothe (partner Beth-Ann). His many Grandchildren: Kristin, Justin, Spencer, Kaylie, Hana, Anthony, Devyn, Skylar & Aliyah. Sister-in-law Vivian Mellon and many nieces & nephews.
Leo's presence will be greatly missed, as all of his family members called him their best friend. His smile & laugh brought joy to all who knew him.
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