Jerry Daniel Grover was born on March 15, 1952, in Reedsburg, Wisconsin, to Wallace and Violet Grover. He spent most of his formative years on a dairy farm near Valton, Wisconsin, with the exception of first through fourth grade, when his parents moved the family to Miltonvale, Kansas, so his older sister and brother could attend Miltonvale Wesleyan Christian High School and College. Jerry continued his education in Wisconsin when the family moved back to the farm, graduating from Wonewoc Center High School in 1970. 

He returned to Kansas for the first two years of college, attending Miltonvale Wesleyan College. He then attended and graduated from Marion College (now Indiana Wesleyan University) in Marion, Indiana, in 1974. 

Jerry married the love of his life, Kathy Stowe, in 1974, and they were blessed to spend 51 years together. They raised three children - two boys and a girl - Mark Grover, Keri (Angelce) Lazovski, and Robert (Sarah) Grover; and have three grandchildren - two boys and a girl - Evie Grover, Liam Grover, and Gabriel Lazovski, all of whom he adored. 

Jerry's faith was the most important thing to him, followed by his family and friends. We were so blessed to have him as our dad. He guided us, taught us what was truly important in life, and loved us unconditionally. We could always go to him and count on him for sound advice and a good laugh.

He loved spending quality time with his family. He was the best grandpa (papa) our kids could have. He spent so much time with his grandkids that they each will have enough memories to last a lifetime. He loved going to all of the grandkid's sports, dance recitals, and school events. He was always on the move. We could call him out of the blue and ask if he wanted to go fishing. Next thing you know, we would see him walking down the path with his fishing pole coming to meet us.

To know Jerry was to love him. He has been described by so many as the nicest man they have ever known. He was a true gentleman. He befriended everyone he met. It didn't matter their age, their beliefs, or their differences, he was a friend to all. He was the best listener, the most caring person, a confidant and someone many would go to for advice. He never judged, he listened, and he would share his wisdom.

Jerry loved his dad jokes. He loved listening to talk radio, reading, walking, and gathering people together. He loved to watch sports, especially the Packers, the Chiefs, and the Royals. He was very intentional about how he spent his time. He never complained about anything. He really respected that in his dad and brother John, and he carried that legacy on.

He recently told his family he was not afraid of dying but was worried about the people he would leave behind. We know he is in a much better place with his mom, dad, brothers, extended family, and friends in heaven. But we will forever miss him. His ministry on this earth was his relationships with everyone he knew and loved.  Jerry went to be with the Lord in the early morning hours on January 9, 2026. 

  A steady hand, a heart of grace, reflecting Christ in every space. 

He lived the Word in all he’d do, with values deep and spirit true. 
 

He always heard what wasn't said, by gentle wisdom he was led. 

With patient ears and counsel kind, a calmer soul you'd never find. 

The finest man I ever knew, a love that only deepened, grew.

Though he has reached heaven's door, his light remains forevermore. 

A drop-in visitation/memorial for family and friends will be held on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, from 2-4 pm.