Henry W. Grierson Sr.

Survived by his wife of 72 years, Mary (Fischer) Grierson, his sons: Henry (Cathy) Grierson, Jr., Joseph (Linda) Grierson and Michael Grierson; daughters: Linda Grierson, Joan (Bob Sampson) Grierson, Judy (George) Palmer, Cathy Miller and Terri (Charles) Kane. Preceded in death by his daughter Lisa (George) Cook. Henry also leaves behind 18 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

Henry (Dad, Pop, Poppy, PopPop) has left a huge hole in the hearts of all of us who knew and loved him. He was the embodiment of a family man, who was married to his one and only love; a man of faith, with an unwaivering love of God and the Catholic Church; and a man who served his country as a Staff Sargent in the Army during WWII. His family meant the word to him. His “tractor rides” are legendary. There’s not a grandchild or great grandchild that didn’t LOVE them. Every family get together had to culminate in a game of volleyball, where he eventually became his team’s designated server (a sure win!). Even though he had macular degeneration for 20+ years, he never let it stop him from leading a full and active life well into his 90s. He continued to ride his bike, split logs, build things and help everyone and anyone who needed a hand. He never ONCE complained about his loss of sight, as he always believed there were others who had it worse, so why should he complain.

We are all better people because of his presence in our lives. His granddaughter, Maureen Cook, said it beautifully in her post: “Poppy is now pain free with momma in the presence of Jesus. I wouldn’t be who I am today without this man. It’s hard to summarize who Poppy was in just a few sentences. He was fearless, strong, dedicated & devoted to his family, hardworking and loving. He worked hand in hand with my Nanny to raise 9 children. They were a true team. He never missed an opportunity to tell his girls that he “loved them more.” He was stubborn, but kind and always willing to share his snacks and sweets (and boy oh boy did he love his sweets).”

Henry served in the US Army during WWII; retired from David Taylor Research and Development Center, then started his own private bus business, Grierson Bus Service, in the 70’s and 80’s.

See you soon, Pop!