Chief Petty Officer Gerald Edward Groh, USN (Retired)

Retired Chief Petty Officer, Gerald "Jerry" Edward Groh of Visalia passed away surrounded by his loving family Wednesday, December 31, 2008 at his residence at the age of 70. Mr. Groh was born January 29, 1938, in St. Nazianz, Wisconsin to William and Frieda Groh. Mr. Groh began his military career in 1956 in the United States Navy and was very proud to serve his country for 21 years. In 1968, he married the love of his life, Jeanette, and together they began their family and enjoyed Navy life until his Military retirement in 1976. In 1976, they moved to Visalia where he enjoyed several careers in Management, before retiring in 1999. He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church. Jerry's hobbies always included his beloved family! He coached and was involved in all of his children's activities. Jerry was the most passionate Green Bay Packers fan. His retired life was consumed with his family, friends and their activities. His children and grandchildren always made him smile and was so very proud of them all. He was lucky to have a well-deserved, retired life of leisure and enjoyed his daily trip to the gym (Lifestyles), Navy friends and reunions, family celebrations, vacations, gardening and most importantly, providing a wonderful, fulfilling life for his beloved wife, Jeanette and his children and grandchildren. He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Jeanette Groh of Visalia; 2 sons, Vince Groh and wife Marielena of London, England and their son Gael Groh; Brian Groh and wife Susie of Visalia and their children, Ellie and Carson Groh; a daughter, Amy Scofield and husband Wallace of Visalia and their son Lincoln Scofield; 2 brothers, Frank Groh of New Holstein, Wisconsin; Joe Groh of Port Washington, Wisconsin; his sister in law Betty Ann Borchardt of Appleton, Wisconsin.