Richard Blaine “Dick” Grogg age 79, of Newton, Illinois passed away April 6, 2024, at Newton Care Center. Dick was born in Richmond, Indiana on August 9, 1944, and was the only child of Thelma (Ball) and Denver Grogg. In 1962, his family moved to Mt. Vernon, Indiana where he graduated high school. Dick then attended and graduated from the International School of Broadcasting in Dayton, Ohio. He married Pamela Ann (Waelde) in July, 1964, and they had a son, Darrin Blaine, who died in infancy, and a daughter Jennifer Helen (Cullen).
The three had many memorable adventures as they travelled continuously for nearly two decades across the United States. Dick moved from radio station to radio station, climbing from on air personality to program director, and then to general manager. Untold number of long-lasting friends and golfing buddies were made along the way due to his wit, humor, and affable personality.
Dick and Pam ended their years of roaming, settling in Newton, Illinois surrounded by friends. Here Dick continued his life of civil service, volunteering his time to many local nonprofit events, as well as using his writing prowess and research skills on numerous fundraising and tourist-attracting efforts. While on the Tourism Board, he designed the Burl Ives monument, worked tirelessly for 6 years on fundraising to bring a bio-diesel plant to Newton, and contacted CD&I, the company who built the 1890 Embarras River Bridge, and persuaded them to donate money for the bridge’s repair. His presentation to the State Historic Preservation Office resulted in the bridge being included on the National Register of Historic Places in 1998.
Dick loved golf, working on cars, writing novellas, and collecting antique radios and clocks. He was an exceptional artist, handyman and endless “tinkerer” who enjoyed building props for his daughter’s work, fashioning items for the house and yard, and building things for friends.
Richard is preceded in death by his mother, father and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He is survived by his wife Pam, his daughter Jen (Mike), and his step sisters Kayla and Patty.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Robyn’s Nest Animal Rescue, 1291 W. Market, Germantown, OH 45327 on online at www.robynsnestrescue.com. No formal services are planned. Cards of condolence may be mailed to the family at 603 South Lafayette Street, Newton, Illinois. 62448.
As Dick always ended his broadcasts, he wishes you all Peace, Love, and Laughter.
Online condolences may be offered at www.crainfuneral.com.
