Fred C. Groves

Fred C. Groves, 88, died Saturday, September 12, 2026 at Altercare of Bucyrus after months of failing health.

He was born May 22, 1938 in Portland, Tennessee to the late James H. and Viola (Kirkham) Groves. The Groves family made their way to Crawford County and Fred graduated from North Robinson High School in 1956. He worked as a lineman and retired after working for the City of Shelby.

Fred was a man of vintage tastes and a personality all his own. He loved the game of golf, old cars, motorcycles, and the simple pleasure of getting behind the wheel of his red 1964 Plymouth Valiant Signet 200 convertible and going for a drive. Whether in his clothing, his cars, or his outlook on life, Fred had a knack for getting every bit of life and use out of the things he owned. Many will also remember him wearing his familiar cabby hat.

A faithful Christian, he loved the Lord and regularly attended as a member of First Alliance Church in Bucyrus. He lived life in his own way, leaving behind memories that, like the vintage things he enjoyed, are uniquely his and will not soon be forgotten.

Fred is survived by daughters, Jessie (Mike) Bassett and Connie Groves; son, Freddie Groves; four grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; one great-great grandson; and sister, Peggy (Russell) Ruth. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by daughter, Donna Mollenkopf; son, Clifton Groves; and brothers, Alton, Harlan, and Merle Groves.

Services will be held on Friday, September 18, 2026 at Wise Funeral Service in Bucyrus. Friends may call from 11-11:55 am and the funeral will begin at 12 Noon with Pastor Don Riley officiating. He will be laid to rest privately in Crawford County Memory Gardens.

Memorial contributions are encouraged to be made payable to Bucyrus Alliance Church and given through the funeral home. Memories and photos can be shared in the guestbook of Fred’s tribute page at www.wisefuneral.com.