Richard Michael Grolway

Peacefully, at his home in Port Elgin on Friday, July 6th, 2018 in his 65th year.  Rick, loving Dad of the late Justin. Beloved son of Mary (nee Biggs) and the late Clayton Grolway.  Dear brother of Guy, Randy, and Cheryle McRae and her husband Gary. Proud Uncle of Cameron McRae and Meagan McRae. Rick will be fondly remembered by Brandy, Dawn, Lydia, Shauna, and Jenna.

Almost 30 years ago Rick moved to Port Elgin to begin a new life at BNPD. He quickly began to cement his reputation as a gifted athlete, musician and all around great guy.  By the time of his passing Rick was known by everyone in town and the list of close friends numbered in the dozens.  You never heard a bad word spoken about Rick and you never heard him say a bad word about anyone else. He took up the game of golf in his 30’s and in true Rick fashion he quickly mastered it and became one of the premier golfers in the community. He hit it as far as Tiger and could bend the ball like Bubba.  Seven club championships at Chippewa Golf & Country Club attest to his prowess.  At the pool table he was the best shot in town and ruled the league. When Rick was at the table he rarely lost and that innate ability to finish the task and win was on full display.  On Thursday nights Rick was to be found at the poker table where for the past 14 years we gathered every week to play. He was a master of the slow play and always seemed to have a king when he needed one – usually on the river. Rick was also a founding member of the Friday Night Book Club – a gathering of musicians and singers who played and sang the night away. Rick was an exceptional guitar player and singer-songwriter. Many a Saturday morning would find the boys groggy eyed and having breakfast at Aunt Mabels.  To all of these pursuits Rick brought a quiet dignity and a deep respect for etiquette and politeness. He was a kind, patient and loving man with an extremely quick mind and a gentle spirit. He was a loyal friend and a trusted confidant.  He left a positive mark on this town and on the people who loved him. We are richer for knowing him but so much poorer because we have lost him – God Speed Little Buddy.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, July 11th, 2018 from 7-9pm at the T.A. Brown Funeral Home, 510 Mill Street, Port Elgin, 519-832-2222.  A funeral service will be held in the chapel on Thursday, July 12th, 2018 at 11:00am. 

Memorial donations to the Children’s Hospital London would be appreciated by the family.

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