Obituary of John A. Grinnell

John Grinnell, 78, of Niles, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 3, 2020, at his residence, surrounded by his loving family, following a brief illness caused by lymphoma. He was born in Chicago, Illinois, the son of the late Vernon E. and Bernice (Barzen) Grinnell on November 3, 1941. After graduating high school, John furthered his education earning a bachelor’s degree in business from Western Michigan University and received his CPA license a few years later. John was a member of the Becksfort, Bussler and Grinnell CPA for many years. He also was a member of the De Boer, Baumann & Company and Dana F. Cole, prior to his retirement. John’s faith was very important to him. He has been a member of First Presbyterian Church in Niles serving in various capacities and committees. John was also a charter member of the Kiwanis Club of Niles/Southwestern Michigan, being instrumental in creating the chapter. John received a kidney transplant over thirty-three years ago and lived a healthy, happy, productive life. John championed the passage of Lauren’s Law for the State of Michigan, requiring all driver’s license applicants be asked if they would like to be on the organ donor registry. John saw the passage of this lifesaving bill and was present when then-Governor Rick Snyder signed the legislation into law. On May 8, 1965, John wed Mary Carol Pears at a ceremony at the First Presbyterian Church in Niles. A few years later the couple welcomed two of their greatest blessings, Abigail and Todd. John is survived by his loving wife of over fifty-five years, Mary Carol Grinnell; his children, Abigail Wier (husband Allan) of Niles and Todd Grinnell of Buchanan; four grandchildren, Gabrielle, Allan, Isabella, and Arielle; great-grandson, Eli; and niece and nephew Michelle and Dustin Hilary. He will also be dearly missed by his brother, Vernon Grinnell Jr. and wife Patricia of Calhoun, Georgia, and their four children, Susan, Sandy, Scott, and Shara. A Service of Celebration for John has been scheduled for July 10, 2021, 11:00 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 13 South 4th Street, Niles. A time of fellowship and light refreshments will take place immediately following the service. In keeping with the Michigan mandates with regard to masks, those who have been fully vaccinated are not required to wear a mask. The family is not asking for flowers or gifts, but in honor of John, express your love to those in your life as he did. Memories and condolences may be shared with his family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Niles. John will be lovingly remembered for his faith, love of family, kindness, generosity, philanthropy, and humility.