Donald W. Grimes, 94, of Blair Ridge, Peru, Indiana, passed away on Wednesday, January 19, 2017 at Dukes Hospital, Peru, Indiana.
Don was born on February 4, 1922 on a farm one mile north of New Waverly in Cass County, Indiana. His parents were Warren W. and Mable C. Shafer Grimes. At 17, he graduated from New Waverly High School, where his favorite subjects were history and spelling. He remained on the farm and worked for several companies.
His final job before enlisting in the service was as a time keeper for construction workers at the new naval base at Bunker Hill in the year 1942. In September of 1942, Don enlisted in the United States Coast Guard, and served our country until September of 1945. After being in the service, he worked at Square D for 37 1/2 years. He was a die setter and also made special units.
On September 22, 1945, at the home of Reverend Tom Shively, he married Jean Ellen Garber, and they enjoyed 66 years of marriage. They had no children, but shared their lives with nieces and nephews.
He and his wife always looked forward to spring, because they were great mushroom hunters. Don had a love of pets, especially cats and dogs. He was quite the handy man, and able to repair most everything until his later years. He liked watching stock car racing, and attending antique tractor and car shows.
He was a member of the First Christian Church of Peru, a 50 year member of the Masonic Lodge, and an American Legion member.
Don was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Jean Ellen Grimes; one sister, Marjorie Hollarman and two brothers-in-law, George Hollarman and Jack Roland
He is survived by his sister-in-law Janet Roland of Noblesville, Indiana, nieces and nephews, and special friends Mark and Joyce Sroufe of Rochester, Indiana
Visitation for Donald W. Grimes will be at the Flowers—Leedy Funeral Home, 105 West Third Street, Peru, Indiana from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm on Monday, January 23, 2017. Funeral Service will follow at 3:00 pm, with the Reverend Jim Loft officiating. Private interment will be at the Mexico Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to the Miami County Humane Society.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.