He was born on October 29, 1930, in Los Angeles, CA to Samuel and Nettie (Friedman) Grossman. Earl grew up in Los Angeles where he attended college and later joined the United States Air Force serving as a Senior Site Systems Technician from 1951 – 1954. He was stationed in Georgia and served a tour in Japan. Earl met the love of his life Betty Thornes, on a double date while training in Denver Colorado. Earl and Betty married the following year on May 20, 1954. Once out of the service, they moved to Los Angeles, Northridge, then up to Fresno in 1967. Earl had a career in textiles with Trend of the Times/Fabricut that lasted for over 50 years, serving a territory from Bakersfield to Stockton and west to the Central Coast. Earl became a significant part of the company’s success in the valley and was well respected by his fellow employees and customers. He had a way of endearing himself to clients, with many feeling he had become a part of their family. Earl became known to many as “Earl the Pearl” and “The Godfather of Fabric” in the Central Valley.
Earl’s laugh was infectious, and he loved to whistle. Although he was proud of his Jewish heritage, his greatest treasure was his family. Earl and Betty spent time with their grandchildren and great grandchildren as often as they could and cherished every moment. Earl quickly earned the title of “Papa” which carried through to all who were close to him.
Earl was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years Betty, his brother Ronald Grossman and nephew Neil Grossman both of Los Angeles. He is survived by his children, Dave Grossman and his wife Desiree, Bob Grossman and his wife Lori, and Marta Magee and her husband Ken; grandchildren Scott Grossman and his wife Meagan, Ryan Grossman and his wife Sydney, Chelsie (Grossman) Arnold and her husband Chris, Elizabeth (Grossman) Moore and her husband Christoph, Katie (Grossman) Rishwain and her husband Michael, Christopher Grossman and his wife Brooke, Shelby (Magee) Sequeira and her husband Eric, Jennifer (Magee) Somerville and her husband Wyatt; great grandchildren Addison, Taylor, Molly, Juliet, Ben, Hallie, Owen, Morgan, Caladin, Kaleb, Connor, and baby Somerville; sister in law Lois Grossman, nephew Gary Grossman along with numerous beloved nephews, nieces and cousins.
Remembrances can be made in Earl’s memory to your favorite charity.
A graveside service for Earl will be held Thursday, June 19, 2025 at 1:00 PM at Clovis Cemetery District, 305 N Villa Ave, Clovis, CA 93612.
Earl will be laid to rest in Clovis Cemetery, 305 N Villa Ave, Clovis , CA 93612.
