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James Grassman Obituary
"Our Hero"! An extraordinary man Colonel James W. Grassman was born in Nebraska on September 23, 1936. As a command pilot with more than 4,000 flying hours in the KC-135, T-37, F-4 and A-10 aircraft, Colonel Grassman's military decorations and awards include: The Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, Meritorious Service Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, the Air Medal with a Silver and two Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award ribbon with one Oak Leaf Cluster, the Combat Readiness Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, National Overseas ribbon (long tour), Air Force Longevity Service Award with one Silver and three Oak Leaf Clusters, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship ribbon, Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm Device and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. He is survived by his wife Mary Lynn Stenzel-Grassman, daughter Gretchen & husband Daniel Lyons, his son James Grassman and wife Heidi, daughter Wendy, sister Jane Hadly and husband Bill and eight fabulous grandchildren. Golf, boating, fly fishing with friends were his favorite past times and always, his breakfast dates with his
close friends. Services will be held on Friday, March 8, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. at St Patrick's Catholic Community Church, Scottsdale, AZ. In lieu of flowers his request was that donations go to Wounded Warriors USA.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Grassman
Norm Lies
February 29, 2024
always remember fishing with him on the green river and the great conversations. Wonderful person.
Carol Tracy
March 13, 2013
Mary Lynn,
No one, and I mean no one, could have been a more staunch supporter of her husband than you. Jim would have been gone three years ago had it not been for your wonderful, loyal, and loving support, and incredible care. I know this for sure because I saw it firsthand. I am humbled before you.
Jim was a very lucky man, and he knew it. I don't know if I have ever seen two people more in love than the two of you. You found the strength and wisdom to live 'in the moment' every day, and to enjoy every minute that God allowed you and Jim to have together. You are one of the few people on this earth that can truly say 'NO REGRETS", and to know in your heart that it is true.
Although I know that you will miss that wonderful man dearly, you had more happiness and love than most people have in their entire lifetime. Most people never find a love like you had with Jim. And whenever you feel sad, I know that you will draw from that. And just remember, Jim lived to make you happy, and would never want you to live in sadness. You will go on to have a wonderful rest of your life, knowing that he will be there waiting for you...a long time from now.
I love you, my dear friend. And I am here for you always. We will miss him too.
Remember that upcoming spa date!
Love you,
Carol T.
LTC John Nichols
March 8, 2013
Dear Mary Lynn and Family:
I am a friend of Lee Smith and in St Patrick's Ministry of Care. I was at the funeral this morning and listened to the heartfelt eulogies that many shared, especailly his Air Force contemporaries. I am a retired Army officer and deeply appreciate what a wonderful man your husband and father has been. His service to our Country reflects nothing but the highest honor on him and Our Country. I can understand why Lee felt so highly of Jim and am sorry that I never met Jim. Please accept my condolences!
Norm Lies
March 7, 2013
A friend to all. Sorely missed. See you on the Green River.
Brick Sidles
March 7, 2013
Mary Lynn, My sincere condolences. I'm so sorry for your loss. Just a month ago when we were visiting, I really had great expectations for Jim. Sincerely, Brick
March 6, 2013
At our monthly lunches he appeared to be getting stronger and he never lost his sense of humor. My prayers for both of you. Jim Hickok
March 6, 2013
Mary-Lynn,I am so sad to think of your loss at losing Jim. He looked so much like in remission just a few weeks ago. Our prayers are with you and your family. It was a pleasure knowing Jim, and a very great pleasure at having you for a neighbor.
Toni Cardini
March 6, 2013
God bless you Mary Lynn. I will hold you and your family in
my prayers on Friday. Love, Toni XOX
Tom & Earline Dickerson
March 6, 2013
It was a Previlege to known you. Rest in peace.
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