Edward Grotbeck Obituary

Passed away on July 27, 2025, at the age of 95. Born on February 24, 1930 in Manitowoc, Wisconsin to Melvin and Hilda (Nickels) Grotbeck, Ed's journey was one marked by dedication, joy, and the love of family.

Ed was a 1948 graduate of Manitowoc Lincoln High School. Following his graduation, he enlisted in the US Air Force, serving during the Korean War.

After Ed's discharge from the service, he worked a number of rather grueling jobs in Manitowoc, including the railroad, shipyard and road construction. While working as a bartender and lamenting about said grueling jobs, he was encouraged by his patrons to go back to school. Ed became the first in his family to attend college. Ed's college years were prolonged when he contracted tuberculosis and was quarantined for two years. He came back stronger than ever, earning a Bachelor's Degree in Education from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Ed embarked on a meaningful career as a teacher with the Milwaukee Public Schools, spending most of his career at Samuel Morse Junior High School teaching 8th grade Social Studies and History. Ed loved to teach and share his knowledge, shaping the minds and futures of countless students until his retirement in 1989. But retirement did not mean slowing down for Ed. His passion for the outdoors flourished as he cultivated his love of a good lawn and garden into a second career, a testament to his love for nature and his green thumb. He could grow anything.

Ed's life was also filled with the joys of family. He shared his life with his beloved wife, Jane (Anderson) Grotbeck, who predeceased him. Together, they raised a family of three children: David, Minocqua, Susan Lupo, Denver, and Robert (Shannon), Las Vegas. He was a cherished grandpa to Vincent and Elena Lupo and his guidance, stories, and love will forever be a treasured part of their lives.

Ed was the eldest brother to Shirley (deceased), Beverly (deceased), Arnold (deceased), Eugene (Susan) of Naperville, IL and Sharon (Jim) Langer of Kewaunee. Ed is also survived by sisters in law Sara Packard of Grafton and Marilyn Grotbeck of Sheboygan.

Ed's interests and hobbies were a reflection of his friendly and engaging spirit. An avid bowler and golfer, he found joy and camaraderie on the lanes and the links. His later years saw him develop a passion for video poker, a pastime that, while not leading to untold riches, did lead to many trips and fond memories, especially after his son, Robert, moved to Las Vegas. Ed loved playing sheepshead with his buddies every Wednesday, breakfasting with the ROMEOs (retired old men eating out) every Thursday, and swimming at the Wisconsin Athletic Club daily.

Ed was a huge fan of the Packers, Brewers and Badgers, and never saw a game where the calls went their way (he would bring this up, CONSTANTLY). The ROMEOs can attest to this.

Edward Grotbeck's life was a tapestry woven with the threads of joy, service, and family. His passing in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, of natural causes, marks the end of an era but also the beginning of a legacy that will live on through the lives he touched. Today, we remember a man who was friendly, handy, and wise-a man who made the world a better place simply by being part of it. Ed Grotbeck will be dearly missed, but his spirit will continue to inspire those who had the pleasure of knowing him.

The Grotbeck family would like to thank the caretakers of Home Instead - Milwaukee North, for their wonderful care of Ed in his final years which enabled Ed to stay in his home.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that you make a donation in Ed's name to the charity of your choice.

A private celebration is planned.