Ralph W. Grover, age 97, of Barron (formerly of Eau Claire) passed away on Monday, October 16, 2023 at Mayo Clinic Health System in Barron.

Ralph was born on June 14, 1926, the youngest of 8 children, to Elmer and Emma (Brookins) Grover.  He graduated from high school in Stevens Point in 1944. Immediately after graduation, he joined the U.S. Navy. During his 2 years stint at the end of World War II, he was shore based in North Africa (Algiers) and in Sicily.

Upon returning home, he worked at the paper mill in Port Edwards for about 2 years before beginning his secondary education at UW Platteville, where he majored in Agriculture and Biological Sciences. While in school, he met and married Arlene Louise Krohn in 1948. Together, they raised three children.

In 1952, he started working for the State of Wisconsin, Division of Animal Health. He retired from the State in 1991 after having worked at offices in Madison and Eau Claire. His hobbies included painting and photography.

He is survived by his 3 children, Barbara (Ronald) Nickell of Clayton, Dawn (Randy) Lehto of Iron River, and Joel (Robyn) Grover of Dallas; 6 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; as well as two brothers and five sisters.

A memorial service for Ralph will be held on Friday, October 20, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at First Lutheran Church in Arland with Rev. Timothy Vettrus officiating.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be at the Lakeview Cemetery in Eau Claire at a later date.

Arrangements are being handled by Rausch and Steel Funeral Home in Barron.

Last Update: Oct 17, 2023 4:24 pm CDT