OBITUARI ES

Grotjohn

Charles Henry “Chuck” Grotjohn left us and gained his wings April 27, 2024. He is survived by his loving wife, Charlene, his children Jeannie Grotjohn Ebert (Art) of Tulalip, Washington, Suzanne Grotjohn of Priest River, his stepchildren Lynne Bergen (Stan) of Deer Lake, Washington, and Jason Reynolds (Sally) of Priest River. He also had a daughter, Debra Grotjohn of Newport, Washington, who preceded him in death in 2008. He had 12 grandchildren: Kelli (Michelle), Steven, Tiffany (Chris), Merissa (Scott), Anthony, Brianna (Joe), Elizabeth, Felisha (Robert), Thomas (Kayla), Vivian (Matt), Rowdy, and Troy (who preceded him in death). Also eight great-grandchildren: Malikai, Izzi, Bryaleih, Paislie, Forrest, Kennedy, Serenity and Sloan, all of whom thought “Papa” was the greatest person in the world.

Charles Henry Grotjohn was born on April 24, 1940 in Morris, Minnesota. He was born to a happy family parented by Henry and Ruth Grotjohn. He was preceded in death by his brothers Russell and David. He proudly served his country by joining the Army in 1958 and served honorably until his discharge in 1962. He was a resident of Priest River for over 45 years, as he arrived in the community in the summer of 1979 and joined his parents and brother, Russ, who already lived here. He found love with Charlene, and they were married on Nov.

24, 1986. He was known for being a friendly face and quick conversationalist at Safeway in Newport, Washington, where he worked from 1979 until he retired in 2002. He was well known in the community and always felt Priest River was his true home.

After his retirement, he spent his time either helping others farming, doing his own farming or doting on his family.

In lieu of gifts or flowers, the family encourages donations in Chuck’s name to the Hospice of North Idaho Schneidmiller Hospice House so that other patients and families can benefit from their excellent and compassionate care.

A Graveside Memorial service is planned for May 18, 2024, at 1 p.m. at Evergreen Cemetery in Priest River and a gathering to follow at Popeye’s in downtown Priest River, Idaho.