Walter Irvin Groves, 83, of Marysville, went to be with his Heavenly Father on Saturday, July 5, 2025, surrounded by his family. He proudly served in the United States Air Force as an Airman Firefighter. He retired after working 30 years at Nestle Research and Development in Marysville. Walter enjoyed wintering in Florida, being a camper host at Indian Lake State Park, fishing, golf, playing euchre, and watching The Ohio State University Buckeye Football games. Walter, and the love of his life, the late Gloria Jean, were married on April 1, 1962, in Marysville. Their marriage began in London, England where Walter was stationed in the United States Air Force. He was born September 13, 1941, in Cable, Ohio, to the late John Darrell and Ora Fay (Higgins) Groves. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his beloved wife Gloria (Miller) Groves; his granddaughter, Ashley Campbell; his great-grandson, Ciaran Rea; a brother, David Groves; a sister, Delores Hamm; and two nieces, Rachelle Groves and Lori Michelle Cron.
Walter is survived by his four children, Kimberly S. Rea of Marysville, Brian A. (Gretchen) Groves of Hillard, Christine L. Cheney of Marysville, and Julie M. (Jeff) Gamble of Bellefontaine; eleven grandchildren, Douglas Rose, Christopher (Kerry) Rea, Aaron (Tristen) Rea, Tyler (Paige) Rea, Hunter Groves, Skyler Groves, Laken Groves, Joshua (Savannah Larkin) Campbell, Jovie Cheney, Colton Clapp and Cody (Shelby) Clapp; ten great-grandchildren, Bella Rose, Gunnar Rose, Finnian Rea, Juniper Rea, Liam Rea, Greyson Rea, Dawson Rea, Oliver Campbell, Carter Clapp and Cayden Clapp; two brothers, Jim Barnhart and Bill (Lavelle) Groves; a sister, Maggie (Gary) Cron; and several nieces and nephews. At Walter’s request, there will be no funeral or visitation. Following cremation, the interment of both Walter’s and Gloria’s cremains will take place at Oakdale Cemetery. Underwood Funeral Home in Marysville is assisting the family. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.underwoodfuneralhome.com.
