John Francis Grimes Jr.

John F. Grimes, Jr., 83, of Peoria, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 15, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated service, brilliant engineering, and deep devotion to his family and community. Born on July 19, 1943, in Saranac Lake, NY, to John F. and Grace (Castle) Grimes. John faced early adversity with the loss of his parents in 1949 and 1950. He was lovingly raised by his aunt and uncle, Laurabel and H. Berwild Williams.

John's foundations of leadership and ingenuity began early as a Boy Scout, where he achieved the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. This training served him well during his military service in the US Army, during which he served as both an enlisting soldier and an officer. In moments of crisis while deployed, John used his scouting resourcefulness to rig a vital solution to a problem. A fellow soldier famously remarks, "Sir, you must have been an Eagle Scout" - a compliment John carried with immense pride throughout his life.

An avid lifelong learner, John earned his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) from Drexel University and a Master of Arts in Engineering Science from Penn State University. His distinguished engineering career spanned over 50 years. He contributed his expertise to broadcast equipment, AM/FM transmitters, high-speed digital signal processing, special instrumentation, and equipment systems. In 1998, John joined Caterpillar, where he spent 18 fulfilling years specializing in engine and machine controls before his retirement.

John's passion for electronics extended into his personal life. First licensed in 1959, he was a dedicated amateur radio operator who held the ham radio call signs WA2HT, K3RPD, M0JFG, KD9HEV, and N9JFG. He also believed deeply in giving back to his community, serving faithfully for the past 10 years as a weather spotter and warning volunteer for the City of Peoria.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Wanda Grimes; step-children, Joseph Darrow and Cindy Casteel; children, Kathleen Ricker, Kelly Rapp, and John Grimes, III; four grandchildren; and a brother, Christopher (Suzie) Grimes. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A memorial service will take place at Westminster Presbyterian Church in January of 2027. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in John's memory to support his faith community at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1420 W. Moss Ave, Peoria, IL 61606. Condolences and memories may be shared through Woolsey-Wilton.com