Rudolph Grob

Rudolph "Rudy" Grob of Altamonte Springs, FL, departed this life on January 21, 2026, at the age of 80. Born on August 1, 1945, in Petion-Ville, Haiti, he was the son and youngest of five (5) children of the late Rudolph Ulrich Grob of Switzerland and Marie Lucienne (Raboin) Grob of Haiti and a veteran of the U.S. Army in New York. [enlisted, served 1966 - 1969.]

In 1965, Rudy legally immigrated to the United States due to intense political oppression in Haiti and joined his brother and sister already established in New York City. Determined to learn English and fully embrace life as an American, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he served proudly. His primary role was as a cook in the mess hall, keeping his fellow soldiers fed and cared for. It was during this time that Rudy discovered his lifelong passion for cooking. Prior to joining the army, in New York City, Rudy met his future wife, Marie Martineau. After his discharge, they married on August 8, 1970, beginning a loving union that spanned more than five decades. Together, they raised three sons in Queens, New York, instilling in them the values of hard work, family, and faith.

In August 1988, Rudy moved his family to Central Florida in search of a better life. Settling in Longwood, he purchased and operated Christo's Breakfast and Lunch Restaurant at the corner of Clay Street and Fairbanks Avenue in Winter Park from 1989 to 1995. After selling the business, Rudy continued to work in the food service industry, dedicating himself to the culinary arts he so deeply loved. Beyond his professional life, Rudy was very mechanically inclined and could repair nearly anything around the house and outdoors. Only a few years ago, he replaced his water heater, a testament to his resourcefulness and determination.

Since moving to Central Florida, Rudy was a faithful parishioner of Annunciation Catholic Church in Altamonte Springs, where he found community and spiritual nourishment. His devotion to God and his family shaped every aspect of his life, and his example will remain a source of comfort and inspiration for all who were blessed to know him. Rudy was known for his warmth, generosity, and the way he made everyone feel welcome. His presence brought joy to family gatherings, and his wisdom and humor will be remembered by all who knew him.

Rudy is survived by his wife Marie (Martineau) Grob with whom he shared fifty-five (55) wonderful years of marriage; three sons, Frederick "Freddy" and wife Jacqueline (Ader) Grob and their children Luke and Alexander of Winter Garden, FL; David Grob of Altamonte Springs, FL; and Jeffrey Grob of Daytona Beach, FL. He is also survived by his brother, Anthony "Tony" Joseph Grob of Lindenhurst NY. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings Marie-Thérese "Cocotte" Chauvet, Thérese-Liliane "Fifille" Grob, and Fritz Grob. He will be forever remembered by his nieces, nephews, extended family, dear friends, and neighbors. He leaves behind a legacy of love, perseverance, and dedication to family that will continue to inspire those closest to him.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings Marie-Thérese "Cocotte" Chauvet, Thérese-Liliane "Fifille" Grob, and Fritz Grob.

Friends and family are invited to attend and celebrate Rudy's life at a Funeral Mass on Friday, February 27th at 1:30 PM at Annunciation Catholic Church, 1020 Montgomery Road, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714. There will be a Celebration of Life Reception immediately following the Mass from 2:30 to 6:00 PM at Sweetwater Oaks Community Center, 810 Fox Valley Drive, Longwood, FL 32779. Parking is available in front of the building and across the street. It will be an open-door reception, come and leave as needed.