Johnny Grinder

Johnny Grinder
August 13, 1947 – December 11, 2025

Johnny Grinder, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on December 11, 2025, at the age of 78. Born in the fall of 1947 to Opal and Clytee Grinder in Mark Tree, Arkansas, Johnny was the fourth of six children and the eldest son.

Known for his playful spirit, he loved giving his sisters a hard time. As a young boy, Johnny's family moved to New Mexico in search of work. His father drove a logging truck and later managed a Whiting Brothers gas station, where Johnny and his brother worked part-time. Johnny was a popular kid in high school and played football, setting the tone for a life full of energy and adventure.

Johnny met Janet while she was dating his best friend, Wesley, and the two began a love story that lasted nearly 58 years. Together, they raised three daughters and built a life filled with family, laughter, and adventure. Johnny proudly called himself the "president of the three girls club." He and Janet created countless memories-family trips to Disneyland, hiking the Grand Canyon, and even a hot air balloon ride for an anniversary. They also opened their home to foreign exchange students, sharing their warmth and generosity.

A hard worker and a true friend, Johnny spent most of his career in the mining industry, eventually joining Performance Associates Inc. in California before relocating to Arizona. For the past 32 years, Marana was home. His work took him around the world, where he made lifelong friends. Even after retiring in 2013, Johnny was often called
back to lend his expertise. In retirement, he embraced his creativity, crafting welded art pieces-cactus, scorpions, birds, and flowers-that he gifted to loved ones.

Johnny was adventurous and fun-loving, with a passion for racing and motorcycle riding. He was a jack of all trades, always ready to help others, often sweetening the deal with his famous promise: "Lunch included."

He is preceded in death by his parents, sister Shelby, three brothers-in-law-Alfred, James, and Allen-and nephew John. Johnny is survived by his devoted wife, Janet; daughters Gwen (Arthur), Shari (Jim), and Kristina (Jason); six grandchildren and their spouses; six great-grandchildren; sisters Marline, Ruth (Harold), Glinda; brother Jimmy
(Frances); numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews; and his longtime friend and traveling companion, Wathena Cobo.

A celebration of Johnny's life will be held on December 19th at Marana Cemetery, with visitation at 9:00 a.m. and a service at 10:00 a.m. Johnny's life was well lived, and his memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.