Bobby Dean Groves

Bobby D. Groves, 80, of Marion passed away at 3:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 6, 2012 at his home with family by his side. He was born on August 10, 1932, the son of Claude and Sylvia Groves of Marion. Bob was a high school mathematics teacher for the Marion Unit 2 School District, and for most of his career he was a high school mathematics teacher and coach for the Maine Township School District in Park Ridge, IL. In his lifetime he earned two Master Degrees in Education; one in mathematics, and one in Educational Administration. His passion for sports led to a lifelong commitment of coaching basketball, football, and baseball at both the high school and college levels. He served as the head basketball coach for Niles College in Niles, IL. He loved golf, fishing, country western music, and traveling. He was a devoted husband and father, who dearly loved his family, and he was deeply loved by his family. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Carolyn Groves; a daughter Dr. Terri L. Groves of Marion, a teacher for the Marion Unit 2 School District; and a son, Robert Dane Groves of Chicago. He is also survived by a sister Claudia E. Brannock of Georgia; and several nieces, and a nephew. He was preceded in death by his parents and his three brothers; Raymond J. L. Groves, Billy Groves, and Donald Wayne Groves. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home of Marion. Visitation will be from 10:00 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 8, 2012 at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home. Following visitation, interment will include a graveside service at County Line Cemetery in Creal Springs.