Wayne Lester Grove

Wayne Lester Grove, 88, beloved husband, father and grandfather passed away peacefully on April 11, 2024 in Gilbert, Arizona.  He was born in Hanover, Pennsylvania on February 5, 1936 to Lester and Hilda Grove.

Wayne graduated from Eichelburger High School in 1954.  He participated in the band and orchestra.  He attended Purdue University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Industrial Economics in 1958.  Wayne played the bass violin in the orchestra and the trumpet in the marching band.  He received his Master’s Degree from the Stonier Graduate School of Banking at Rutgers State University in 1971.

Wayne joined the United States Air Force in 1958 where he trained as a Navigator.  After he was honorably discharged he served in the Air Force Reserves for seven years.

Growing up in Hanover, Pennsylvania he and Audrey knew each other as children because their parents were friends.  They were married on April 30, 1961 and spent nearly 63 years together.  Wayne and Audrey welcomed their daughter, Cathy in 1962 and their son, Randy in 1966.  He enjoyed attending all the music recitals and concerts of his children through the years.  Family vacations were a highlight with many trips to the Jersey shore and cross-country vacations visiting state parks and attractions. Wayne and Audrey moved their family to Scottsdale, Arizona in 1973.

Wayne spent his career in the banking industry and was the Vice President and Bank Manager at various banks including United Bank of Arizona, Commercial State Bank and Grand Canyon State Bank.

He was a member of the Kiwanis Club of Phoenix and spent numerous Christmas seasons “ringing the bell” outside of retail stores, collecting donations for children in the community.

Wayne and Audrey were members of Scottsdale United Methodist Church for over 50 years and enjoyed many years of singing in the church choir.

One of the highlights of his life was the over 40 years he spent as a member of the Orpheus Male Chorus of Phoenix.  He and Audrey traveled to over 24 countries with the Chorus as they performed all over the world.

Wayne was an avid golfer and enjoyed golfing with his son-in-law and his grandsons.  He even had two hole-in-ones which his grandsons are trying hard to replicate.

He was a huge Arizona State University football fan and enjoyed many seasons attending their games.

Some of his most special memories were made with his grandsons while building Lincoln Log houses, teaching them to play checkers and chess, playing pool or the many hours they spent together on the golf course.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Audrey Shaffer Grove, his daughter, Cathy Couch, son-in-law, Reuel Couch and grandsons, Zach Couch and Cody Couch.

Wayne was preceded in passing by his parents, Lester and Hilda Grove and his son, Randy Wayne Grove.

A Celebration of his Life is forthcoming.