Neil Reigh Grosz

Neil Reigh Grosz died on Wednesday, September 21, 2011. He was born in Long Beach, California and grew up in many states and in England, but from the moment he arrived in Texas, he knew this was his home.

Neil joined the United States Air Force during the Vietnam era and spent nine years serving his country. After leaving the Air Force, Neil worked in the high tech industry. He also pursued numerous business ventures and hobbies that highlighted his creative, adventurous side. However, Neil’s work did not define his life. Although he was incredibly successful on the professional level, those who knew him best recognized that his work was always a means to an end. He was passionate about pursuing fun and creating memories for his family.

During the past three years, Neil battled mesothelioma, devoting each day to living another day. For those of us who loved him, every one of those days was rich with love and a source of lasting memories. He was a devoted son, passionate husband, doting father, and outrageous grandfather who earned – and reveled in – the honorary title, “King Pa.”

Neil is survived by his parents, Reigh and Joan Grosz; wife, Susan; daughters, Jamie and Vaughan; grandson, Adian; sister, Sherrie Patrick and husband, Charles; brother, Wayne Grosz and wife, Stacy; sister, Julie Brownson and husband, Thomas and numerous nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Neil’s life will be held on Thursday, September 29 at 11:00 a.m. at Green Pastures, 811 West Live Oak Street, Austin, Texas. All attendees are requested to wear a Hawaiian shirt to represent a continuation of Neil’s standard daily “uniform”. During this celebration, friends and family are encouraged to share memories and stories of Neil’s place in their lives.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes that memorial contributions be made to the International Mesothelioma Program at www.impmeso.org.