Final Salute

A native of Santa Rosa and lifelong resident, passed away peacefully on December 27, 2009 at the age of 86. Beloved husband of Elizabeth “Betty” Grove for 61 years; Dear father of Robert Grove (Debbie), Larry Grove (Denise), and the late Dennis Grove; adored grandfather of ten, he is also survived by numerous great grandchildren. Dear brother-in-law to Gloria Barenchi. Al was a second generation graduate of Santa Rosa High School. He proudly served his country in the Seabees from 1943-1946 as a Machinist Mate 2nd class and was awarded the Victory Medal for his service. Al was the third generation of his family in the fruit drying business, and spent more than 52 years of his life dedicated to his career. He grew up in a section of Old Redwood Highway (that is now Santa Rosa Avenue) that contained many prune orchards where his family dried their fruit. He would remain connected to agriculture his entire life. His family has vivid memories of him happily driving his forklift during pear season at the dry yard. He thought that was the best time of year. He loved nature and the outdoors and thought nothing was prettier than his own backyard. In his later years, C.A. enjoyed sitting in his chair under the oak tree every afternoon. He also loved animals, especially his grandchildren’s hogs and cows. He had several dogs of his own during his lifetime, the last which was named Wendy rode to the dry yard with him every day. Al was recognized as a Friend of 4-H, Outstanding 4-H Volunteer of Sonoma County and received the Santa Rosa Chamber of Commerce Leadership in Agriculture Award. In addition to his lifelong involvement with 4-H as a member, leader and volunteer, he was a member of Santa Rosa Luther Burbank Lodge #57 F.& A.M., Santa Rosa Scottish Rite Bodies and Ahmes Temple A.A.O.N.M.S. In addition to his dear wife Betty, his children and grandchildren were the most important people in this life. He was very loyal to those he cared about and would never allow anyone to say anything negative about those he loved. Friends are invited to attend Memorial Services on Friday, January 8, 2010 at 2:30 p.m. at the 4-H Center, 6445 Commerce Blvd., Rohnert Park. Private Interment, Santa Rosa Memorial Park. If desired, donations in his memory may be made to the 4-H Foundation of Sonoma County, PO Box 1283, Rohnert Park, CA 94928 or to Sutter VNA and Hospice of Sonoma County, 1110 North Dutton Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA 95401. DANIELS CHAPEL OF THE ROSES FUNERAL AND CREMATION SERVICES, 707-525-3730