James Harold Grove

September 4, 1922 - February 27, 2019

James H. Grove age 96 of Dixon died Wednesday Feb. 27, 2019 He was born September 4, 1922 in Dixon the son of Paul and Catherine (Leahy) Grove. He married Mary Lu Taylor on April 28, 1951 at St Patrick Catholic Church in Dixon. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1942-45 as a tail gunner on a SBD Dive-bomber. He was a member of the First Marine Aircraft Wing MAG 24 which saw extensive action in the Pacific Theatre of WWII, and in particular the Bougainville (Guadalcanal) and the Philippines (Mindanao-Luzon) Campaigns. He also participated in the occupation of Peping (Beijing) China immediately following the war against the communist forces. After returning from the service he worked as a snack food distributor until he retired in 2012. He always enjoyed sports especially the Chicago Cubs, Notre Dame Football and the Dixon Dukes. His greatest passion was spending time with his family and working in his yard. He enjoyed most of all sharing his tomatoes and roses with friends. He was a charter member of Saint Anne Catholic Church. He was also a member of the American Legion and a lifetime member of the VFW. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Paul, Lawrence, Murrie, Edward and John. He is survived by Mary Lu his wife of 67 years. Children, Joanie, Jim (Jane), and Joe (friend/Shiena). Grandchildren Chris Grove, Doug Grove, Kelly (Greg) Johnston and Tim (Megan) Grove. Great grandchildren Alba and Isla Johnston. Funeral services will be held on Monday March 4, 2019 beginning with a 9:30 AM prayer service at the Jones Funeral Home followed by a 10:00 AM Mass of Christian Burial at St Anne Catholic Church. Burial with Military Honors will follow in Oakwood Cemetery in Dixon. Visitation will be on Sunday from 2:00 to 5:00 PM at the funeral home with the Rosary at 4:00 PM. A memorial has been established.