"Gary, Watt and I were so sorry to receive the Nicholas Chronicle and see the posting of Don's obituary. In watching the remembrance video, it's obvious that he was such a fun loving man and devoted father. His youth photographs were all Groves in looks and daring physicality. However, the Chronicle picture took my breath away as he grew into a 50/50 clone between your dad and Jim Robinson. You must have wonderful memories of your son. Please know that our thoughts are with you, his daughters, and siblings."
In loving memory of
Donald Gary Groves, II
September 3, 1969 - March 19, 2018
Donald Gary Groves, II, 48, of Huntington, WV, passed away unexpectedly Monday, March 19, 2018 at his residence.
Donald was born September 3, 1969 in Morgantown, a son of Donald Gary Groves and his wife, Cindy, of Westernville, NY, and the late Mariruth Robinson Caldwell.
Along with his father and step-mother, survivors include two daughters, Allison and Olivia Groves, both of Morgantown; his siblings, Tim Groves, Sarah Katherine Schneider and her husband Dan, Dennis Denny Caldwell and his wife April, John Groves and his fiancee Maryssa Peirick, and Kelley Groves, M.D.; several nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, and many friends.
He was a graduate of Sissonville High School and graduate of West Virginia University, majoring in Journalism, and minoring in Business. He was a veteran of the United States Army, and he also served for several years with the Army National Guard. He was employed at Lowes, where he was well-respected. Prior to that, a majority of his work career was spent as a Pharmaceutical Sales Representative.
His passions included biking, running, repelling and rock climbing. He was a NASCAR enthusiast, loved being on Summersville Lake, and visiting the beach. Most importantly, however, he cherished every moment spent with his daughters.
Friends may join the family to honor Donalds life and legacy at Smith Funeral Cremation Care, 108 Holland Ave., Morgantown on Friday, March 23, 2018 from 3:00pm until the time of the funeral service at 5:00pm with Pastor Justin Myers officiating. Interment will take place privately.
To send the family your personal condolences, and other symbolic gestures, or to order flowers, please visit www.smithfcc.com.
Tributes
"I have many great memories of times with Don and his family. Growing up we had snow skiing at Snowshoe, tennis and trips to Summersville Lake and Sea Pines in Hilton Head. We also re-connected as adults with families of our own in North Carolina, both in Charlotte and in the mountains. Don has been a great friend with a ready smile that always made me feel good. He'll be missed very much."
"Our heartfelt condolences to Don's family as he awaits the return of Jesus Christ, when you will all be united again and "God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow nor crying, neither shall there be anymore pain." We knew Don as Sarah's loving big brother, and our memories of him are all sweet. Your family is in our prayers."
"A Dish Garden with Fresh Flowers was ordered on March 23, 2018"
"An Azalea Plant was ordered on March 23, 2018"
"A Traditional Funeral Basket was ordered on March 23, 2018"
"I didnt have the privilege to know my cousin Donald as a husband and father, much to my regret. And yet I still feel that closeness I felt towards him when we were children. Donald was adventurous and feisty, but also kind, gentle, thoughtful, imaginative. Special. Looking through the shared photos, Ive been revisiting so many memories (Rocky! Stretch Armstrong! Space 1999!). I wish I could be there today to honor him. Love to his girls, and all the family."
"A Monet's Garden Table Basket was sent on March 23, 2018To Dr. Kelley Groves & her Family. Sending love and prayers for peace from Columbus, Ohio. May you find comfort in the memories you share together. With Sympathy, The Nationwide Children's PCCM Fellowship Program "
"A Designers Choice was sent on March 23, 2018With deepest sympathy. From the DuBois family"
"I have only known Don for the last year and 7 months of his life but I got to know him well. I saw all the different sides of this wonderful man. The funny side like last week when he brought me a bag full of solar powered dancing chickens to make me smile. The loving side when he talked about his family, particularly Allison, Olivia, and his mom. The compassionate side when he talked about his faith. The awkward side when he found out that Netflix and chill did not mean watch TV and relax. The intellectual side when he talked about medications that he sold in the past. The forgiving side when he would argue with someone. The strong-will side when things werent going as planned. The personable side when he would strike up a conversation with anyone within talking distance (he knew more about my neighbors than I did). The tender, golden heart side that I saw every time he was in my presence. He quickly became my best friend, my go-to guy for anything. Don, you will always hold a place in my heart. I will forever love my best friend and miss him terribly."
"I have had the pleasure to work along side Don over the past year, and he is always genuine, caring, friendly,and hadan eagerness to learn and grow. His attitude,energy and pridewere evident in everything he did at his job, but not in comparison to the excitement and joy you heardin his voice and saw on his face when he talked about his daughters. My most sincere and loving condolences to his loving family."
"A The Color of Memories Table Arrangement was ordered on March 22, 2018"
"A Spathiphyllum was ordered on March 22, 2018"
"It has been a pleasure to know, and work with Don over the past year. Don was a very kind, and a good hearted person. He was passionate about his work and excelled at his job. Our hearts are with you in this time of sorrow."
"A Rays of Summer Sunshine was sent by Fred and Mary Ferris, Becky and Richard Sullivan on March 22, 2018"
"Don was a pleasure to work beside, while at Lowes. From his time in the Paint Department, Seasonal, & as a Coordinator, he always found a way to make you laugh. I am thankful for the time I had with Don & he always had a great story to tell. From myself and others, you will be missed."
"A Mountain Meadow Pedestal Arrangement was sent on March 22, 2018Don loved the outdoors. Picturing him hiking through a mountain meadow. Love to all. Aunt Patricia "
"A Tradition and Splendor was sent on March 22, 2018With deep sadness I'm praying for everyone affected by the loss of one incredible nephew and human being. It was an honor to have been his uncle and spend time with him in his last days. Deepest sympathy, Granvel Dilley "
"Don was always such an amazing friend to Kevin and I. I will never forget all of our memories living across the street from Don and Natalie in Beckley, WV right after we all were first married! We shared so many great laughs and stories and we will never forget our time together. Don always called me "Lady J" and I can still hear his voice and see that smile when he says it! His laugh was the best! Don loved his girls with all of his heart and I remember one of our last times together when they visited us in Charleston, SC! Praying for your family during this difficult time. We love you all so much! Kevin and Amy Jimenez"
"We are all sorry for the loss of Donald. His mother Mariruth was one of my closest first cousins on the Robinson side. And although miles prevented me from knowing Donald, I always asked about his family and sent well wishes from afar. I hope the knowledge that many you barely know are praying for you brings you comfort."
"So sorry for your loss. Love and prayers being sent."
"Don was one of the most gentle, kind, and loving men in my life. It was an honor to be his little sister of 10 years. He made me proud in so many ways. For instance, I remember when he served our country. Mom and I used to cry at baseball games when they played the national anthem, because we were so proud of him. He was an amazing son to my mother. He brought joy to her life! [She said he was her favorite!] Above all he made every one around him happy, even if he didn't think he did. With the time we spent together, he taught me to respect my husband, to love God, and to live my life to the fullest! I will miss him, but I believe that I will get to see him again someday. I love you, andmy life was great because you were a part of it. Thank you for being my big brother!"
"Don was a good man and a friend. It's always difficult to know the right thing to say for these things, but as I sit here reflecting on who Don was, I remember lots of laughter and spirit. Don loved the outdoors, a good laugh, and his beautiful daughters. I remember our kayak adventure in SC. We came up with a couple second hand kayaks on a Wednesday, practiced our maneuvers on a Thursday, and entered a race on Saturday. Of the 135 contestants, Don and I finished in the mid-130s (really 134 and 135). I still tell that story and laugh every time. Don was never afraid to jump in with both feet. He had a great personality and I will remember him that way. Allison and Olivia - I know he was very proud of you and loved you very much. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the rest of the family."
"A Garden Path Vase was ordered on March 21, 2018"
"A Traditional Funeral Basket was ordered on March 21, 2018"
"Don was a kind soul and a man with a great sense of humor. He always made me laugh and waseasy to be around.He was like that from the first day I met him.Of all my memories of Don, I think my favorite was from the SC days, Allison and Olivia were just babies, and I was visiting for the weekend from college. Monsters, Inc. was Allison's favorite movie and it was in heavy rotation at the house. Don walked in the door from work and Allison called him "Daddy Sully," and without missing a beat he responded, "Come here, Mike!" Allison, giggled and laughed.Olivia, just ababy,was "Boo" by default.He lovedhis girls. Allison and Olivia - I have no words to make what you are going through better and I won't pretend that I do. Nonetheless, I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you both and the rest of your family."
"A Table Basket was sent by Missy & Dan Fruth on March 21, 2018"
"An A Garden Path was ordered on March 21, 2018"
"As I look at Don's picture while writing this I think back over the almost 40 years of him being my nephew. He was always a very kind, giving and loving soul. Flooding back are memories of hunting easter eggs, flying kites, backpacking, camping, fishing, biking, playing ping pong, horse shoes, boating, climbing cliffs and jumping into the lake, ice skating, going to church, etc.. I would say most have seen him dohis skit of Matt Foley from Saturday Night Live doing "Living in a VanDown by the River". See iton YouTube. He hadus all in stitches. I toldhim many times he should of been a comedian. Over the last 8 or so months our relationship grew much closer. We spoke about many topics. I didn't realize he hadwon so many national sales awards in pharmaceutical sales. He said not many did. A humble guy he was.He really showed me his heart and soul. Beautiful it was. A few weeks ago I had to go see him. We met outside andwe had the hardest hugs that I can ever remember. Each of the five hugsmustof at least lasted5 minuteseach.These hugs were different. I didn't know or realize that these may be goodbye hugs. We moved inside and he confided in me his life from childhood up. Every detail for some reason.I think he came to an epiphany of which I think he discussed with his minister.Certain things started to make sense to both of us. I think it was freeing to him. He loved life however complex it could be. Allison and Olivia if you read this you need to know your father expressed to me every time we spoke of how proud he was of you both and that he dearly, dearly loved you. He talked about how he liked taking you to church and I know he wouldlike you to continue on your faith walk andseeking Jesus Christ.John 16:22 So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.Don, I have always loved you and always will. I miss you so very much."
"A Table Memorial with Trinity of Candles was sent on March 20, 2018"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28"
"I have known Donald over 35 years. He came into my life as a wild teen, he was a great big brother, and while he was always up for a good time he was always claiming responsibility, much of that was never his but he felt it was. He had broad shoulders to carry the weight of the world. I treasure my memories of him, rock climbing beer can ledge on Summersville Lake with his family, water skiing, and sitting by the fire at camp, and his smile. I loved you then Donald, and I love you now. Rest In Peace"
"Donald Gary Groves II, my very first nephew, the first grandchild in the family and he wore the title well. Don was the sweetest boy- kind and smart from the beginning- an old soul in a young body. And then he matured into a fine man- still kind, still intelligent, and funny! Don could make a room light up with his humor. And oh how he loved his girls- Allison and Olivia.I loved seeing them together.One of the latest texts Don sent to me (thinking of his auntie) was a picture of his grandparents (my mom and dad) on their wedding anniversary. He said, "I'm sure you probably have this somewhere, but just thought I would send it in hopes that it would make you smile." That is the man he was- a simple text, yet so meaningful to me. I'm thankful forDon and heartbroken that he is gone.But I know his spirit lives on.Allison and Olivia, do you remember the four of usgoing to church together on one of yourvisits- that was so meaningful to your dad- he wantedGod in his and your life. Blessing to all and much love. "