Our husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle and friend William (Bill) Ray Grover passed away on July 7th 2023 at the age of 78 due to health complications. Born on June 4th 1945 in Salt Lake City, he was the beloved third son of Isabel and Sherman Grover. His passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the lives of his family.
Bill was a lifelong resident of downtown Salt Lake City, living in the neighborhoods of Liberty Park and Capitol Hill. He graduated from East High School and pursued service in the Army Reserve as a sharp-shooter and artillery specialist. After his term of service, he developed an enthusiastic interest in learning technical trades at Salt Lake Community College. Among his lifelong pursuit of knowledge, he held certificates or licenses as a plumber, electrician, HVAC technician, real estate agent and general contractor. Bill gained from his mother a belief in the power of education and hard work. He shared this belief with his family and all those around him. He was known in his community as a person with integrity, kindness and was quick to assist others in any capacity, at any time.
It was during the construction of a home, he met a charming interior designer named Kathy Rowberry whom he purchased drapery from and then married on September 9th 1978. They finished constructing their life-long home together on Capitol Hill in which they welcomed James (Jim) and Kristine. There they pursued a bedding and drapery fabrication business that quickly outgrew the space and caused the move to where it is currently operating in Salt Lake City for 35 years.
Bill's life was rich with diverse passions and pursuits. He developed a love for auto mechanics, often sharing this interest with his brothers Neal and Dick. Together with his father, Sherman, he took to the skies, exploring the world of small-plane piloting. Bill found solace in the serene art of fly-fishing, frequently casting lines alongside his friend, Scott and his son Jim. He shared a love for dogs with his daughter Kristine. Furthermore, Bill discovered the artist within himself, mastering the craft of painting and creating countless works that encapsulated his unique perspective.
He loved participating in the Boy Scout program with his son Jim and had great experiences in numerous callings as a non-member in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He gained a testimony, joined the church and was sealed to his family later in his life after his son’s completion of a mission and ongoing support and encouragement by close friends and family.
He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Kathy, his children Jim (Mindy) and Kristine, brother Neal and three grandchildren Julianna, Jackson and Emeline. His absence will be acutely felt by all those, who relied on his wisdom, support, and unwavering loyalty. We all wish we could witness the reunion he is currently having with parents, brothers Dick and Tom, sister-in-law Sharon, and other close friends especially Scott and Phil, who preceded him in death.
A memorial service to honor Bill's life will be held on Saturday, July 15th 2023 at 12pm with a viewing starting at 10:00am at the Ensign Peak Ward Meeting house at 155 North Sandrun Road, Salt Lake City, Utah. All those whose lives were touched by Bill are invited to join in
celebrating his remarkable journey. In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation to Primary Children's Hospital.
Kathy, Jim, and Christine:
I am so very sorry to see this! We are sending all our love and condolences.
the Bertochs
Grover Family,
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Bill. You are all so very loved. Most of my memories growing up include your family. I hope you are all feeling the prayers of those who love you at this difficult time.
Bill was a delightful individual. Kind. Intelligent. Interesting. Insightful. I had an assignment where I visited him and his wonderful wife on at least a monthly basis for several years. I felt blessed by the experience. He contributed much in this life and will be missed. rbs
Sincere condolences to Bill’s family on his passing. He will be missed.
Oh, how we are going to miss Bill’s bright and entertaining stories. He always had a laugh for us. We will dearly miss him.
I know that Brit was influenced for good through his relationship with Jim and his Father. I offer my sympathies and love to you at this time of loss.
Our deepest sympathy to your family with the news of Bill's passing. Salt Lake City has lost a great self-made businessman and citizen. Bill and Kathy exemplify the core of the American dream - the patriotism of hard work, family principles, and moral courage to help make the world better. His memory will certainly be rehearsed by all those who knew him. I know our family will not soon forget the Grover's. Thank you and best wishes.
