GROVES, Joseph Earl (Joe)

The Arizona Republic, Phoenix, Arizona Thursday, January 16, 2003 Joseph Earl Groves, September 28, 1932 - January 14, 2003. Joseph Earl Groves was born on September 28, 1932 in Medicine Lodge, Kansas. He was the second son of Obie Joseph and Mayme Fern DeWeese Groves, two years younger than Robert Eugene "Brother Bob". He spent his youth in Kansas and New Mexico, where he loved to be outdoors. At an early age, he developed a love for animals, especially horses. He served our country in the US Navy from 1951-1955, earning the National Defense Service Medal, United States Service Medal and Korean Service Medal. The Navy gave him the opportunity to travel around the world and the time to teach himself to play the harmonica. In June, 1955 Joe married Carol Lynne Bowman, whom he had known since 1950. He was fortunate to have a wonderful mentor in Carol's father, Sterling Price Bowman, who taught him the electrical trade and was instrumental in getting Joe into the IBEW. Throughout the 50s and 60s, Joe, Price and Steve Bowman (Carol's brother) traveled the southwest working construction for the IBEW. Additionally, Joe was a member of the Masonic Lodge (Tucson and Carlsbad, NM) and the Sabbar Shine Temple (Tucson). Joe and Carol were blessed with two daughters, Rhonda Louise and Lisa Jolene. When asked if he had wished for a son, he always said that he had everything he'd ever hoped for in his two daughters. He continued his love of the outdoors and animals during his 70 years, sharing this love with Rhonda the most of all. Joe truly passed the torch, when he then mentored his young son-in-law, Bill Roberson (Rhonda), who added welding to his skills. His first grandchild, Crawford Earl Lloyd Roberson "Earl" was named after him and continues the tradition as a welder as he now builds his career. Joe was very proud of his first granddaughter, Rachelle Louise Hansen (Roberson), who was a catcher on a two-time State Championship Softball team. Eighteen months ago, Joe moved back to Arizona to be with his family. This was a true gift, especially for Lisa and her children, Alexander Sterling Joseph Amato and Adrianna CaitLynne Elisabeth Amato. This gave them the chance to get to know their grandfather and share their lives with him. The family is thankful for the opportunity to spend the past 18 months with Joe and he was thankful to be with his family. Carol was an example for all in her Christian love toward Joe. He was so lucky to have her in his final days. Joe waited until it was all resolved and it was all said. And, when it was, he went to sleep and went home to our Lord on January 14, 2003. We will all miss you and we know that you are at peace, on earth and in Heaven. Memorial Services will be held at St. Andrews the Apostle Catholic Church, 3450 E. Ray Rd. in Chandler, Arizona on Friday, January 17, 2003 at 11:00 a.m. Courtesy of Pat Wilson.