Ronald W. Grassette

GRASSETTE, Ronald W.
"Grizzly Ron"
Age 61, of Elmira, died at his home, with his family by his side, on Saturday, November 24, 2007. Ron was born December 25, 1945 in Cambridge, MA, a son of the late Orden C. and Wanda Sleginski Grassette. In addition to his parents he is predeceased by his sister, Marcia Grassette, mother-in-law, Margaret Cruthers, and granddaughter, Madeline Ames. Ron is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Carolyn Cruthers Grassette; daughters and sons-in-law, Jenifer J. and Lance Ames, Robyn R. and Joshua Bennett, all of Elmira; granddaughters, Taylor Ames, Ella and Emilyn Bennett; brothers and sisters-in-law, Orden and Althea Grassette of Sevierville, TN, Robert and Joanne Grassette of Stewartstown, NH; father-in-law, Melvin Cruthers of Newbury, OH, with his wife Bell; step-brother-in-law, William Spencer of Middlefield, OH, with his wife Diane; along with several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Grizzly Ron played semi-pro basketball for a Greek team in Cambridge, MA. He served in Vietnam from 1969 – 1970 with the 101st Airborne Division. Ron was a radio teletype operator and a helicopter machine gun operator. Ron earned a Bronze Star for his service in Vietnam. He was a retail sales manager for Woolworth's in Richmond Hill, Queens and later for Rockbottom on Long Island. Moving to Elmira he became assistant manager of Pudgie's Northside. His last place of employment was at F.M. Howell. Being born and raised in Massachusetts, Grizzly Ron was an avid Red Sox, Celtic and New England Patriot fan. He was an avid sportsman, enjoyed fishing and looked forward to his Tuesday and Wednesday night pool leagues. Family and friends are invited to McInerny Funeral Home, corner of Water and Walnut Sts., on Tuesday, November 27, 2007 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held at the conclusion of calling hours with Don Crawford officiating. Interment will take place at 10:00 a.m. at Forest Lawn Memorial Park. The family would like to offer a special thanks to Stephanie and the LPN's at Southern Tier Hospice for their dedication and loving care given to Grizzly Ron.