Groenke, David 1940-2024 St. Joseph, Mo.

By NewsPress Now

David Groenke, 83, St. Joseph, passed away Monday, Sept. 16, 2024. He was born Dec. 3, 1940, in St. Joseph to Lloyd and Inez (Hamm) Groenke. He was a graduate of Lafayette High School in 1958.

David married his high school sweetheart, Helen Grant, on Dec. 16, 1961. She survives of the home.

After receiving training in sheet metal work, he was a sheet metal worker for over 40 years. He worked for many companies, spending most of his time at Seaman & Schuske.

David enjoyed playing softball in his younger years, and golf for his whole life. He also was known to walk about 10 miles a day. He loved his sports teams: the Dolphins, Cardinals, Royals and Chiefs.

He liked to get together with his friends, who called him “Wooden Head!” There’s even a song about it. He was the center of attention wherever he went. David was a frequent patron of the Hi-Ho, where he would enjoy his good buddies, occasional game of pitch and brewski. Most of all, David cherished his family and loved to spend time with them.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Dwayne “Dink” Groenke; and nephew, Dave “Middle Dave” Groenke.

Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Helen; children, Debbie Groenke and David Lee Groenke Jr.; grandchildren, Heather Elliott (Brett) and Indi Groenke; sister, Sharlene Stout; several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins; and his beloved dog, Dolly.

Farewell Services and Public Livestream 1 p.m. Monday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Inurnment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with friends 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the St. Joseph Animal Shelter.

Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.