Robert James Grandel

Robert James Grandel died peacefully on March 4, 2026 at the age of 94 years old, in Arlington, Texas. He was born in Canton, Ohio, on September 18, 1931, the only child of Ralph and Mary (Sutek Grandel). He graduated from Navarre High School in 1949 and enlisted in the Army a few days later. He served for 24 years, retiring as a Major in Military Intelligence. In those years he was stationed in Korea, Vietnam, Germany, England and numerous other posts across the United States. On May 4, 1957, Robert married Rosemary Kohmann at St. Paul's Catholic Church in North Canton, Ohio. Robert and Rosemary traveled extensively and they moved many times eventually settling in Fairfax County, Virgina, where they raised their four children. After retiring from the Army, Robert worked as an executive for Woodward & Lothrop Department Stores in Washington, D.C. and then as a church administrator for the Catholic Diocese of Arlington, Virgina. In 1993, Robert and Rosemary moved back to North Canon, Ohio, where they enjoyed their retirement years. Robert and Rosemary relocated to Arlington, Texas in 2021 to be closer to their family.

Robert was an avid reader of historical fiction, mysteries and westerns. Robert was passionate about his family, books, dogs and music. He was also a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Military Officers Association of America.

Preceded in death by his parents, granddaughter Jacqueline Prescott, his son Stephen and his loving wife of 67 years Rosemary. He is survived by his daughter Patricia Moretti, daughter and son in law Sandra and Stephen Lindsay, son and daughter in law, John and Susan Grandel, 10 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and many loving in laws, nieces and nephews. His family and friends will remember Robert as having a good sense of humor, intelligent, generous, humble and meticulous.

According to his wishes there will be no funeral service. Cremation will precede interment at Arlington National Cemetery, in Arlington, Virginia.