Roger Grooters

Roger Wayne Grooters 1944 - 2010 Roger Wayne Grooters, 66, died on October 6, 2010 during his mission to cycle from Oceanside, CA to Jacksonville, FL when a motor vehicle collided with his bicycle on Highway 20 just west of Ebro, FL. Roger was born on April 11, 1944 in Melvin, Iowa to the late George and Leone Grooters. A long-time athlete, Roger was an avid runner and collegiate track coach. After earning a PhD in Educational Administration, he devoted his career to building student academic programs for athletes at several major universities including, Nebraska, Florida State, Michigan State, Southern Cal, LSU and Arizona. Roger retired from the university system in 2008 and lived at his home in Gulf Breeze, FL with his wife, Vicki. Roger took his same work ethic and dedication into retirement and combined this with his passion for cycling. On September 10th, he began a journey to bike across America in hopes of raising awareness and financial support for the victims of the Gulf Coast oil spill. Although his journey was tragically cut short, his family plans to complete the ride in his memory. His passion for cycling was only exceeded by the love for his family. Roger "Papa" is survived by his wife Vicki, his seven children, Kol, Lisa, Josh, Jon, Mark, Ben, Steve and 11 grandchildren. He was a beloved brother to Bev, Buck, Buzz, Lynne and Sue. Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. with a memorial service following at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, October 11, 2010 at Gulf Breeze United Methodist Church, 75 Fairhope Drive, Gulf Breeze, FL 32561. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in honor of Roger's ride across America by visiting www.gbumc.org. Click on the red "Give Now" link. Fill out the form with "Oil Spill Response" in "other" category or mail a check payable to Gulf Breeze U.M.C. at the address above and note "Oil Spill Response" on the donation. Arrangements entrusted to Rose Lawn Funeral Home of Gulf Breeze. You may offer condolences, share memories and sign the guestbook at www.roselawn-fh.com