Rex Arthur Greenawalt

After graduating from Wayland High School in 1966, Rex entered the US Army. He proudly served our country during the Vietnam War he was assigned to the 25th Infantry Platoon Scout Dogs 1st Air Cavalry His partner was a tough German Shepherd mix, Hubert. Following injuries that resulted in 2 Purple Hearts, Rex was honorably discharged.

On opening day of deer season, November 15, 1969, Rex got the “deer” of his life, when he was united in marriage to the former Gloria Haight. The young couple settled in quiet family life in Grand Rapids, MI and raised three children. Rex provided for his family by his definition by being “a jack of all trades, but a master of none”.

Supporting those that served our country and lived in our community was important to Rex. He was a longtime member of American Legion Roger B. Chaffee Post 154 and the Military Order of the Purple Heart. He volunteered for many years at the Veterans Home and even enlisted the help of his family to help residents in the bowling alley and Cozy Corner's events.

When Rex was coping with his PTSD he wrote poems as a form of therapy that were published into his book” Poems from Pain to Life”. His writing earned him a spot in the 2025 season of Art Prize, showcasing his poems

Most importantly, Rex will be remembered for his deep love of his family.

Rex is survived by his wife of 56 years, Gloria; his children: Jason (Karen) Greenawalt, Anita (Timothy) Ross and Donna (Daniel) Burns; 18 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren; his brother Lee Greenawalt and his sister Roxie Muczynski as well as many other relatives. He was preceded in death by his great-grandson Noah, his brother Wade Greenawalt and his parents.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday March 7, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Northlawn United Methodist Church where the family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service.

Memorial donations in memory of Rex may be made to the Michigan Veterans Home of Grand Rapids.