Charles R. Grove

Charles Raymond Grove (Chuck, Charlie, Old-Timer) passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, after prolonged health issues. Charles was born in Amarillo, Texas on January 11, 1931, to Stella and Lloyd Grove. He was the youngest of eight children. The family returned to Des Moines, Iowa when he was a young child and he graduated from Des Moines Technical High School in 1949, having received vocational training in airplane mechanics. He subsequently enlisted in the United States Air Force, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant where he was an instrumentation expert on Korean War aircraft.

After Charles received his honorable discharge, he joined his family’s trade as a brick and stone mason, but he continued to build his skills and further his education. He received multiple diplomas, including Building Construction, Estimating and the Essentials of Architecture from Chicago Technical College in 1961, and he earned his Real Estate License in 1971. During his career, he was a sought-after craftsman working for various contractors, earning his 50-year Gold Card from BAC Local 3. The Grove craftsmanship can still be seen on many buildings in the Des Moines area, and in the many custom fireplaces he built while in business for himself.

Charles's first marriage to Doris Elaine Lewis lasted 17 years and produced four children. Charles married his second wife, Martha Boys, in March of 1970 and they were together for 45 wonderful years.

Charles was preceded in death by numerous family members, most notably his parents, his brothers Clifford, Fred and Leonard, his sisters: Francis and Lola, his wife Martha and his daughter-in-law Joan. He is survived by his sisters; Lloye and Phyllis, his children Deb, Vicki (Wayne), Rick and Gayle (Pete), his sister-in-law Virginia, ten grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and many beloved nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Visitation will be Saturday, June 1, 2024 at 11:30 AM at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home & Crematory, 8201 Hickman Road, Urbandale, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 PM.  Burial will follow in Glendale Cemetery with full military honors rendered.