William Groot

Family-Placed Obituary

WILLIAM GROOT William Groot, 86 years old, died on Sunday, March 23, 2008. Bill was born to Jacob Groot and Carrie Slingerland on June 18, 1921 on the Groot family dairy farm in Garfield, New Jersey. The family moved the farm to Clifton, New Jersey in 1928. The family vacationed every January in Palm Beach County. Bill's father purchased 1500 acres and created a cattle ranch in 1950, which is known as PGA National, when the family moved to Florida. Bill was a 1941 graduate of Rutgers University, with a degree in Agriculture. Bill was the recipient of the distinguished service award given by the Lighthouse Division of the Boy Scouts of America. He was a charter member and President of the Exchange Club of The Northern Palm Beaches. Bill also enjoyed singing and traveling with the barbershop quartet for many years. Bill Groot was an extremely generous man who had a desire to make a lasting difference to others. He was a great friend to Christ Fellowship Church, especially as he facilitated the acquisition of land for their current North Campus on Northlake Blvd. Bill's desire to make this property that he dearly loved and valued available to touch the lives of children and students, clearly demonstrated his faith and love. One of the main facilities on the North Campus was named in honor of Bill and Jane Groot. Bill is survived by his loving wife of 26 years, Jane Anderson Groot; his stepsons: Michael Anderson (Connie), Steven Anderson (Linda), and Rick Anderson (Nancy Ann); grandchildren: Matthew, Mark, Gina, Jill, and Richard; his loving cousins and many dear friends. A visitation will be held on Friday, March 28 at Christ Fellowship Church, Palm Beach Gardens, starting at 12 Noon, with a service to follow at 1 PM. Burial will follow immediately at Royal Palm Memorial Gardens, West Palm Beach. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Gulfstream Council Boy Scouts of America, 8335 N. Military Trail, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410. The family would like to extend a special thank you to The Inn and Nursing Center at La Posada for all their dedication and special care. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Howard-Price Funeral Home, North Palm Beach, FL. To express condolences and/or make donations Visit PalmBeachPost.com/obituaries