Ernest F. Groce

Ernest F. Groce, age 96, of Pomona, CA, formerly of Oldham, SD, passed away in Pomona, CA, on June 24, 2025.  Graveside services will be 11:00 AM, Saturday, July 5, 2025 at the Oldham City Cemetery.  

Born in Ramona, South Dakota on New Years Day in 1929, Ernest was #8 in a family of 11 children. His parents John and Maude (Borah) Groce worked a small farm, but eventually moved to Oldham. Ernest attended school graduating from Oldham High School in 1947. Throughout his school years he also worked with his father as a blacksmith, providing much needed repair work to the farming community especially during World War II. He is recognized as an honoree in the National World War II Memorial Registry of Remembrances.

On April 29,1950 Ernest married Ramona Jensen. Sadly, she passed away shortly after the birth of their daughter Lois. Ernest married Dorothy Sapp on November 28, 1953. He continued working with his father in Oldham. Ernest and Dorothy moved to California in 1959 settling in Pomona with their young children. For the next few decades Ernest developed a successful career in mechanical engineering. He was a devoted and loving husband for 64 years. As an active father and grandfather, he passed on his skills through projects in a well-equipped garage. Family, friends and co-workers loved him for his kindness, intelligence and sense of humor.

In 1992 Ernest retired. He stayed busy and happy building stained glass art, playing the piano, attending church activities, puttering around the house, traveling, and spending time with family. Ernest especially enjoyed building and refurbishing vintage steam engines. He was a member of Western Antique Power Associates for many years. After Dorothy passed away Ernest lived with his daughter and son-in-law in Pomona.

Ernest Frederick Groce passed away peacefully on June 24th at 96 years of age.

Ernest is survived by his four children; Lois (Dennis) Jonker of Sioux Falls, SD, Ernest (Hilda) Groce of Cibalo, TX, Susan (John) Martinez of Pomona, CA, Brian (Liz) Groce of Golden Valley, AZ, 16 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren.

Arrangements entrusted to Crawford-Osthus Funeral Chapel/Johnson-Henry Chapel

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