Joseph James Grossi Sr.

Joe Grossi Sr. leaves behind a hole in the hearts of everyone who knew him. Lovingly referred to as "Papa Joe" by family and friends, he was a kind, generous, helpful man with a quick sense of humor. His family includes son, Joe Jr., daughter, Annie, grandchildren Kaiden and Jayda, great-grandchildren Aspen, Tucker, Wren, and Sage.

Joe worked at Solvang Mill & Lumber with his son where they could build anything. They shared a love of persimmon cookies, Peterbilt trucks and special memories of taking the boat out on Bass Lake. His daughter was his best friend and they shared a love of animals and cooking polenta and stew, baking cookies and turnovers. He hated to measure ingredients. They were each other's person. 

Joe found joy in his "junk" on the walls, his collections, tinkering in his yard, clocks and gadgets, and loved fresh fruit and wine Sundays. He was always proud of winning the neighborhood Christmas decoration contest when his kids were young, being a 4H leader, and winning the best Danish Days parade float. Joe loved to tell stories about high school where he played basketball and hated typing class, working at Anderson's Pea Soup, cars he had, stray animals that would "follow" him home, and his Christmas wagon. 

It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to Papa Joe today, but as he would say "Glad you got to see me!" We will love you and miss you until we are together again.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Warriors Fund.