Whitmer B. Grove

Whitmer B. Grove, 70, of Penn Hall, passed from this life April 11, 2016 at the James E. Van Zandt Medical Center in Altoona.  Born May 11, 1945 in Bellefonte, Whitmer was a son of the late Harrison H. and Amanda R. (Solt) Grove, Sr.  He was a 1963 graduate of Penns Valley Area High School.  Whitmer proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force, serving in the 555th Fighter Squadron dubbed the “Triple Nickel” during the Vietnam Conflict, where he built runways.  He attained the rank of Sergeant and earned the Purple Heart, the Vietnam Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal and the Republic of Vietnam Service Medal. 

On November 23, 1993 he was united in marriage to Ruthe Youngblood who survives at their home in Penn Hall.  In addition to his wife, Whitmer is survived by one daughter, Heather Webber of Osceola Mills; two sons, Douglas S. Grove (Kim) of Coleville, and Danny W. Grove of Baltimore, MD and four grandchildren, Fernicia Waters, Trevor Grove, Caleb Grove and Jonathan Grove.  Also surviving are five siblings, Ted F. Grove (Joan), Benjamin H. Grove (Bonnie), Winona B. “Winny” Wills (George), Wanita J. Askey (Jim) and Harrison H. Grove, Jr. (Cindy) and his former wife, Trudy Musser.  Whitmer was preceded in death by three siblings, Jeremiah W. Lehman, Ellerian S. Grove and Tina L. Grove.

Whitmer attended the Penns Valley God’s Missionary Church.  He was the owner/operator of Grove’s Handyman Service for 30+ years.  He could fix anything and was always there to lend a helping hand when needed by family or friends.  Whitmer was a member of Centre Hall American Legion, Smith-Pletcher Post 779 and the Potters Mills VFW Post 9575.  He loved all kinds of animals, gardening, reading and antique cars.  Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family. 

A visitation for family and friends will be held Wednesday, April 13, 2016 from 1-3 pm at the Penns Valley God’s Missionary Church, Rte. 45, Spring Mills.  The funeral service will follow at 3 pm with Pastor Andy Cooley officiating.  Military honors will accorded at the church.  Contributions in memory of Whitmer may be given to the Altoona VA Hospital, c/o Volunteer Office, 2907 Pleasant Valley Blvd., Altoona, PA 16602.  Donations will go to the restoration of the 1/2 scale replica of the Vietnam Wall at the Hospital.

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