Richard Grindell

Richard W. Grindell, age 90, of Platteville, passed away Thursday, August 14^th at Grays Nursing Home in Platteville. He was born Jan. 13^th, 1924 in Platteville to John L. and Marcia (Rundell) Grindell.

For many years Dick worked in the family monument business with his mother and brother, Ed, which was a great source of pride for him. He was musically gifted and enjoyed playing piano, organ, guitar, and accordion-all by ear. A CD of his music will be playing at the visitation. He was an incredible marksman with a 22 rifle and was well known for his abilities at area turkey shoots. He constructed and used slingshots and gave away many over the years. Many area residents remember the 7 kites he made and would fly in the pasture along highway 81. Several friends enjoyed sharing his interests with him through the years. Dick thoroughly enjoyed his motorcycle and logged many miles on it, riding it into his 80s., later in life he constructed bird feeders out of plastic jugs, filled them with seed, and would give them to area food pantries to distribute. He took much pleasure in raising mammoth sunflowers, harvesting them, and feeding the birds.

Ed and Elaine Grindell, Dicks brother and wife, were dedicated caregivers to him for many years involving him in family and community activities. Dick looked forward to traveling to be with family for the holidays up North in Wisconsin and in Missouri. He took his first train ride in his early 80s to St. Louis and enjoyed the view from the top of the Arch. He was a Packer and Brewer fan and enjoyed attending a couple of baseball games.

He is survived by several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and four brothers, Jack, George, Bob, and Ed.

Funeral Services were held at 11 a.m. on Monday, August 18, 2014, at Martin Schwartz Funeral Home in Platteville, with Reverend Mary Ann Floerke officiating. Burial was in Greenwood Cemetery, Platteville. Friends called from 9 a.m. until the time of service Monday at the funeral home.

In lieu of plants and flowers, a Richard Grindell Memorial Fund has been established.

 A heartfelt thanks to Michelle and Jim Klein, Rita Hoffman, David McDermett, Deb and Doug Custer, and Diane Paynter for their care and special friendship to Dick. The family is also very grateful to Grays Nursing Home staff for the excellent care and compassion they provided the past few months.