Donald Dean Grotts was intelligent, industrious, and seemingly fearless. His passing is a great loss.

Don had an affinity for the natural world, which he expressed in his care for animals, his passion for outdoor sports, and also in his artwork. He was never without a sketchbook. Being such a hard worker, Don retired from several professions, most notable his veterinary practice. He also worked in primate research, as a house painter, and as a chef. He was always learning and always teaching.

He had a million stories in him, partly due to his age, but mostly because of his indefatigable spirit of adventure. Count yourself fortunate if you've heard a few.

Don is survived by his wife Peggy (his bashert or soul mate, he called her), by his sister Annette, sons Joe and Howard, and daughter Gina. He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph Earl Dillon and Helen Kathryn Radloff, his adoptive father James Grotts, his brother James, and his son Donnie.