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BORN
1987
DIED
2015
Donald Grotts Obituary
Wanting his independence early, Donnie started working as a dishwasher and then cook at Lady Falconburg's, Nini's, the Cyprus Café, the Balcony, and finally Carver's, with several interludes working in Portland, Oregon. Donnie was an artist, a ""true lefty"", and hands on learner, having little patience for academics. He prepared many tasty dishes for friends and family, and worked with an all consuming passion and energy in the kitchen. The staff at both Carver's and the Balcony treated him like family and valued his skills.
Donnie loved the outdoors and turned over many a rock as a child to see what was underneath. As a young teen, he was an avid mountain biker and inspired his younger brother, Howard, to pursue his own racing career. He was very proud of his younger brother's accomplishments. As an adult, he loved to hike with friends in the hills and mountains of Durango. A real music lover, he appreciated many genres, from Hip-Hop to Rock to Country, even embracing his parents' generation of music from the 50s through the 70s.
Despite Donnie's challenges with depression and substance abuse, he had a great work ethic and was a patient teacher. He could also be extremely funny and made people laugh. He was loved and known by many.
Donnie is survived by brothers Howard Grotts of Durango and Joe Grotts of Massillon, Ohio, sister Virginia Semler of Bayfield, mother Debbie Williams, father Don Grotts, grandfather Jim Grotts of Boise, Idaho, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
A benefit and silent auction with food and music will be held at the Balcony Backstage Thursday June 25th at 6:00 p.m. A Celebration of Donnie's life will be held at the Carver's patio Sunday, August 16, 2015.
Donnie will be deeply missed. His loving spirit reached out to all and touched many lives with care and compassion.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Donald Grotts
Eileen Phillips
June 27, 2015
Donnie was a loving soul. He was sweet, charming, funny, and caring. Yes it was a struggle for him, this life, I am so sorry he did not make it . It says so much about him that so many loved him very much.
Denise Simonsen
June 23, 2015
We are so sorry for your loss.
With deepest sympathy,
The Simonsen Family
June 21, 2015
Dear Debbie and Howard,
I am so sad to hear about Donny's passing.
If you need a shoulder, please call me.
Kay
Rita Fowler
June 18, 2015
Love and Peace Donnie boy. Sorry it was such a struggle.
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cl
June 17, 2015
I have heard your prayers, I have seen your tears. I will heal you. 2Kings 20:5 ~
T B
June 17, 2015
I was sad the hear about Donnie. We used to work together and he was such a kind, sweet, gentle soul. He cracked me up and had a great smile. Thoughts are with his family. May he rest in peace.
Melani Woodruff
June 16, 2015
Seeing Donnie was always such a joy. His loving smile, caring eyes, and kind, generous heart, are a permanent impression in my memory.
These traits shone brightly from deep within him, to share with every single interaction and visit, I was always blessed by seeing him. He will be missed and all will remember Donnie with genuine love. He now rests in the presence of peace and tenderness, a true match to his soul. I wish Debbie, Don, Howard and all Donnie's family, strength and healing, comfort in the memories of him and the blessing of having had him in their lives. He touched so many people's lives, I am grateful to have known him. Rest in peace, dear Donnie.
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