Dean Alan Groza

Every summer the family traveled to California to visit extended family, and Dean especially enjoyed the summer activities with his cousins Brent and Brian.

Dean graduated from Merrillville High School where he loved taking shop classes. Upon graduation he entered the Army National Guard and later the California Air National Guard. Dean attended Cal Poly Pomona and graduated in Electrical Engineering.

In 1975 Dean married Bonnie Thibeau. He was a devoted dad to Matthew and Andrew and was supportive of their activities. Saturday morning was always a trip to the donut shop! Dean was Matthew's Cub Scout leader and was a fan of Andrew's soccer games. Dean loved fishing and riding snowmobiles with them.

Dean started Quantum Electric Construction and wired many fire stations, churches, and commercial buildings in the Willamette Valley. After 32 years, Dean retired from Quantum Electric.

Restoring antique cars and being a fireman on the steam engine train out of Garibaldi were highlights for Dean.

But most of all, Dean loved Jesus and would be singing in the choir on Sundays. As his family surrounded his bed his last morning singing Amazing Grace, Dean mouthed the words too!

Dean is survived by Bonnie, his wife of 46 years; Matthew, Andrew and Johanna and his 5 month old grandson, Jaxon Joseph, who brought him so much joy.

The Celebration of Life service will be at Salem Evangelical Church on Tuesday, December 14 at 1:00 pm. There will be a viewing before the service from 12:00 - 12:45 pm.

If you would like to make a contribution in Dean's memory please consider: lnFaith Ministries, Elsie Beard, c/o Salem Evangelical Church, 455 Locust St NE, Salem , OR 97301. Elsie teaches neighborhood children about Jesus in the Salem area and at summer camps.