Theodore Edward Grothe, known to friends and family as Ted, passed away on December 5, 2023, at the age of 74 in Las Vegas, NV. He was born on May 18, 1949, in Galesburg, Illinois, to Theodore and Evangeline (Blocklinger) Grothe.

Ted is survived by his beloved wife, Lana Grothe, and his children, Ted O. Grothe (Brooke) of Overland Park, KS, and Becca Grothe Waron (Cam) of Chicago, IL. He leaves behind a legacy of love through his grandchildren, Gwendolyn Grothe, Graham Grothe, Grant Grothe, Emmett Waron, and Benny Waron. His loyal companion, Izzy, the family dog, will also miss him dearly.

Ted's life was marked by a diverse array of roles. He was a devoted son, brother, cousin, uncle, husband, father, and grandfather. Throughout his life, Ted took on numerous professions, including roles as a shoe salesman, teacher, financial planner, insurance agent, remodeler, painter, welder, mover, cobbler, cab driver, security guard, Lyft driver, gardener, and food enthusiast. His versatility earned him the title of a true Renaissance Man. A man of learning, Ted received his education at St. Joseph's Elementary School, Costa Catholic High School, Carl Sandburg College, and Western Illinois University. His commitment to community service and fellowship was evident through his involvement in the Jaycees, Knights of Columbus, Elks Club, and Lions Club. Ted's achievements were numerous, including many Jaycee awards, Lion of the Year, Melvan Jones Fellow, and attaining the 4th Degree in the Knights of Columbus. He also earned a Master of Business Administration and became a Master Gardener.

Ted became a sports fan through his children. He supported Teddy in baseball and Becca in soccer and swimming. He loved his family, his friends, his dogs, his yard and garden, and the Las Vegas Golden Knights. Ted is preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Annette Hanna, Patricia Stockton, Rebecca Thompson. A Celebration of Life will be held in Galesburg, IL, in the spring of 2024.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Ted's memory to the UNR Cooperative Extension, Attn: Master Gardeners, 8050 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89123. Checks should be made out to the Board of Regents. Additionally, contributions may be made to Costa Catholic School, 2726 Costa Drive, Galesburg, IL 61401.

Ted will be fondly remembered for his table saw in the dining room, his annoying Santa hat at Christmas, and bragging about getting married on the hottest day on record. May he rest in peace.