Obituary of Richard Lee Growe

Richard Lee Growe, A.K.A. "Big Daddy" "Doc" "Dicky" "Big Rick", passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home surrounded by his loving family on Friday, May 6, 2017. He was 63 years young. Born in East St. Louis, IL, Rick was raised in Indiana. He attended college in Wyoming and resided in NJ following college. He met his soulmate, Kathy and they married in 2000. Rick loved sports including softball and basketball. He played professionally for 4 years on the Washington Generals, which allowed him to play against teams like the Harlem Globetrotters. He also had a passion for music, all types including singing one of his favorite songs, Mustang Sally, and cars, specifically muscle cars, including his Chevy Nova. However, his main focus in life was his family and friends, especially his grandchildren. Richard was the type of man who would do anything for anyone. He was hilarious and always had a smile on, even if everyone didn't understand his sense of humor. He was the man you could always look up to and count on. He always worked hard to support his family, working for 18 years as an Environmental Waste Technician. Rick and Kathy loved their new winnebago to make camping trips that much better for their family. He will forever be treasured and remembered and has left us with a legacy of love, laughter, and compassion that will live on in our hearts and souls for an eternity. Left to continue his legacy are his beloved wife of 17 years, Kathy (Will); his adored children, Kevin (Kelly) Will, Ashley Growe, and Ricky Growe; his cherished grandchildren, Maggie and Grace Will; his caring siblings, the late Jerry Growe, Rob Jenkins, and Billy Jean (Patrick) Richie; his loving in-laws, Vicky & David Mele; his worshiped pup, Charlie; and many other extended family and friends. Memorial Visitation will take place on Wednesday, May 10th from 4 – 8 pm at Norman Dean Home for Services, 16 Righter Ave., Denville, NJ 07834. Memorial Mass will take place on Thursday, May 11th at 10 am at Assumption Church, 91 Maple Ave, Morristown, NJ 07960. Memorial Donations can be made in his memory to Project Acorn/Preschool Advantage by way of www.inmemoryof-memorial.org. Please leave a condolence and special memory for his family.