James Claude Groscost

Jim was born on January 17, 1936, in Provo, Utah, to Charles and Maud (George) Groscost. The youngest of five children, he was raised in Tooele, Utah in a close-knit family rooted in strong values of faith, hard work, and service.

Jim attended Tooele High School, where he served as class president and was a standout tennis player. After graduation, he studied Engineering at the University of Utah. With a growing family he didn’t finish his degree but opted to attend trade school, where he became the youngest journeyman plumber in the state of Utah. His career evolved into general contracting, and he later expanded into commercial construction. Known for his integrity, tireless work ethic, and entrepreneurial spirit, Jim built a reputation as someone who could always be counted on.

He had a deep love for adventure, nature, and movement. Jim was an avid outdoorsman who found joy in hunting, golfing, fishing, skiing, hiking, boating, dirt bike riding, and jet skiing. Whether he was in the mountains, on the lake, or out on the trail, he felt most at home in the beauty of the natural world.

That adventurous spirit extended to the skies as well—Jim earned his pilot’s license and eventually bought his own plane. Flying brought him a sense of freedom and awe, and he loved sharing that passion with family and friends.

Family and faith were always the heart of Jim’s life. He served faithfully in many church callings and was the kind of man who was always first to lend a hand. Whether repairing something around the house or helping a neighbor, Jim was the one people called when they needed dependable help and quiet strength.

Jim was a loving and devoted husband. He married his high school sweetheart and eternal companion, Kathleen Sharp (Kathy), on October 8, 1954. After a few years of marriage they eventually settled into their cherished family home in the Mt. Olympus area, where they created decades of lasting memories. They shared 50 wonderful years together before Kathy passed away from ALS in 2005. Their life together was filled with adventure and joy. They loved traveling—whether camping with family and friends or exploring the world—visiting places like New York, Florida, Hawaii, Alaska, Canada, China, Sweden, the United Kingdom, Germany, Mexico, Peru, and many others. Together, they also served multiple missions for the LDS Church at the temple and bishop’s storehouse, a reflection of their shared commitment to service and faith.

Jim and Kathy were known for their hospitality and zest for life. They threw lavish parties with neighbors, building a strong sense of community and lifelong friendships. Their home was a gathering place—filled with laughter, and genuine connection. One particularly memorable celebration was a surprise 50th birthday party they hosted for a close friend, which featured a vintage hearse dramatically driven down the aisle of the church—an unforgettable moment that reflected Jim’s sense of humor and flair for the unexpected. Their legendary New Year’s Eve parties were centered around playing Greek poker late into the night, often lasting until 3 a.m., surrounded by friends, food, and laughter.

In 2006, Jim married Colleen Hymas, with whom he served a mission in Washington, D.C. Their years together were filled with continued service until her passing in 2025.

Jim is survived by his four children: Michael (Cheryl), Gary (Leisa), Jana, and Richard (Kirsten); 16 grandchildren; and 22.5 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; his four siblings, Keith, Barbara, Kenneth, and John; wife Kathleen; wife Colleen; and his great grandson, Christopher “Critter,” in 2012.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the LDS Mt. Olympus East Building at 3070 E. Nila Way (4140 South), Salt Lake City, Utah. A viewing will precede the service from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. and will also be held on Friday, May 30, 2025 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Wasatch Lawn Mortuary, 3401 S. Highland Dr., Salt Lake City. Join us in celebrating Jim’s remarkable life.