John Groff

John K. Groff, 91, of Chattanooga, died on Monday, Sept. 30, 2013, at Summit View Assisted Living.Mr. Groff was born in Lebanon, Pa.; he was the son of the late Grant and Mae Groff. He was a veteran of The United States Army Signal Corp; during WWII he helped to build communication lines in France. After the war, Mr. Groff returned to Lake Forest Illinois in 1951, and resumed his job with Illinois Bell Telephone Co. After 36 years of service, he retired from the telephone company and moved with his wife, Laura Walker Groff, to Tuscon, Ariz. He and Laura were avid world travelers; they toured extensively in Europe, Africa, Greece, and China. They were members of the First Presbyterian Church of Tuscon. After more than 59 years of marriage, Laura preceded him in death in 2001.He was also preceded in death by his son-in-law, Thomas Powers. Two years ago, Mr. Groff moved to the Chattanooga area. Until two weeks ago, he enjoyed his daily walks. His will be remembered as a man who was devoted to his family.Survivors are his daughters, Joanne Christine Groff, Susan Ellen (Jay) Spalding and Gail Ann Powers; his sister, Lucille Arthur; grandchildren, John, Stephen, Laura, Caitlin, and Lisa.A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 3, at Heritage Funeral Home Chapel.The family will receive friends from 9 until 11 a.m. on Thursday at the funeral home.Inurnment will be at 3 p.m. on Thursday at Chattanooga National Cemetery.The family wishes to thank the staff of Summit View Assisted Living for the wonderful care that Mr. Groff received.They suggest that memorials be made to Summit View at 825 Runyan Drive, Chattanooga, TN 37405.Visit www.heritagefh.com to share words of comfort with the family.Arrangements are by Heritage Funeral Home, 7454 East Brainerd Road, Chattanooga.