Michael Grothe

1945 - 2025

Michael was born September 30, 1945 in Montevideo, Minnesota to Hjalmer and Vesta Lou Grothe. He moved to Pasco, Washington at a young age with his family.

Mike attended Pasco High in the Class of 1964. He then attended CBC and CWU where met the love of his life, his wonderful wife, Katie. After graduating CWU, he started his career with the Local 55 Sheetmetal workers. He was a long time employee with Foster's Sheetmetal and finished his career with Randolph Sheetmetal.

Michael and Katie were married August 22, 1970 and 4years later Michael and Katie became proud parents of Christi.

One of the biggest highlight of his life was watching his grandchildren, Chayce and Taylor, grow into the people they are today. He could be found sitting in the stands proudly watching Chayce play football, basketball and baseball for many years. He rarely missed a game. He also proudly watched as Chayce graduated his electrical apprenticeship, as well as get married. He was beaming this summer when he found out he was going to be a great grandfather, proudly telling anyone who would listen.

The first day he saw Taylor his heart melted. They enjoyed every moment spent together from trips to the beach to watching TV in their recliners, sometimes not needing to talk at all, just being together. He proudly wore his Grandpa of 4323 sweatshirt everywhere and would tell everyone about how special his granddaughter was. He absolutely loved watching Taylor ride her horses and show her lambs, even though he knew nothing about either. He shared a moment recently that he wasn't sure what Taylor would end up doing in life but whatever it was she was going to be great and he couldn't be more proud of her.

Michael was an avid reader, loved to read about historical events and places and of course his daily newspaper. He blessed many around him with the beautiful cross stitch pictures he made over the years. And we can't forget his love of casinos.

Michael is survived by his beloved wife, Kathryn Ann (Katie), daughter Christi Sorbel, son in law Bob Sorbel grandchildren Chayce (Carissa) Sorbel and Taylor Sorbel. His sister Judy Mahan and brother in law Ron. His brother Dale Grothe and sister in law Dorris. As well as many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the program One Book, One School at Columbia Elementary to promote literacy and carry on Michael's love of books to a new generation. Information can be found at https://gofund.me/277ab65f.