Paul Ronald Grischke

He is survived by his loving wife of many years, Judy; his children, Mark (Rod Andres) Grischke, Todd (Benita Marshall) Grischke and Karl (Janalee) Grischke; and his grandchildren Hannah (Kirk) Thomas and Hunter Grischke. Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Tural Grischke; his brother, Nicholas Alan Grischke; and his niece, Pamela Sue Grischke.

A native of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Paul was always passionate about music. He was a professor of music at Grand Valley State University in Allendale, Michigan, for almost 30 years, where he taught clarinet, conducting and music history, and for several concurrent years, the principal chair clarinetist in the Grand Rapids Symphony Orchestra. Prior to this, he taught at Illinois Wesleyan University in Normal, Illinois and Monmouth College in Monmouth, Illinois. Paul also proudly played in the United States Army band in Wurzburg, Germany.

Fishing, hunting, camping, sailing and motorcycling with friends were thrills he loved.

Many of his retirement hours were spent creating an extensive HO-scale model railroad. The result is a small work of art that his family will treasure.

His best friend and wife, Judy, along with their sons and their families, his pastor and his church family at Bethlehem Lutheran Church were very dear to him. Paul will be remembered as a kind, loving and outgoing man.

His family would like to extend their appreciation to the staff at Spectrum Hospice for their care and concern for Paul’s comfort.

A private family service for Paul was held at Bethlehem Lutheran Church on Sunday, June 6, 2021.

Memorial donations may be made to Bethlehem Intergenerational Center, 250 Commerce Ave. SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.