Obituary of Jim Groner

Jim Groner January 16, 1942 - August 28, 2009 Paul James "Jim" Groner, of Skyline Drive , Brookfield , devoted husband of Lee (Burnett) Groner, died peacefully at Danbury Hospital with his family at his side on Friday, August 28th after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Anna, Illinois on January 16, 1942, son of the late Paul F. and Alice (Dugan) Groner. Jim was a Veteran of the United States Marine Corps, serving stateside in Barstow, California during the Vietnam War. He worked as an IT Manager for Maytag in Herrin , Illinois for many years. For many years, Jim and his family made their home in Marion, Illinois where he was involved in numerous local sports and civic activities. He was a former member of the Marion Jaycee's, a coach for little league baseball and boys basketball, a longtime Secretary and Treasurer of the S I Bowl bowling league and was a member of the Franklin County Country Club. In addition to being an avid golfer, he was also a dedicated fan of SIU Saluki football and basketball and attended many games. Jim and Lee decided to retire to Brookfield to enjoy watching their grandchildren grow. During his retirement, Jim worked part-time at Walmart in New Milford as he enjoyed being busy and meeting new people. An avid golfer, he enjoyed playing in the Senior Golf League at Richter Park. He was also a dedicated Yankee Fan, UConn Basketball Fan as well as countless other sports. He was happiest spending time with his family, and being "Papaw" to his 3 grandchildren. He never missed one of their sporting events or activities. In addition to his beloved wife of 44 years, Lee, he will be sadly missed by his daughter, Cheryl Oberndorfer and her husband, Kyle, of Brookfield; his son, Todd Groner Kopriva and his wife, Sandy, of Seattle, WA; and his three cherished grandchildren, BJ, Devin, and Karlee Oberndorfer. He will also be greatly missed by his nephew, Gary Rothschild, of Marion, Illinois. His family would like to express their gratitude to the nurses and aides of the 11th Floor Oncology Unit at Danbury Hospital for the compassion and care shown to Jim and to them during this very difficult time. Funeral Information In keeping with Jim's wishes, the family will celebrate his life privately. Donations Information In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Danbury Hospital Development Fund, Praxair Cancer Center, 24 Hospital Ave, Danbury, CT 06810 .