Frederick H. Grigg

Frederick H. Grigg, age 84, of Mount Ida, Arkansas passed away November 18, 2017. Frederick was born March 4, 1933 in Peoria, IL to Frederick T. and Marie Vogel Grigg. He is preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his wife Donna Grigg of 35 years, son, James Grigg of New York, NY, two daughters, Susan Sewards of Lancaster, Tx, Christine Saskiewicz (Rich) of Park City, Utah, step-son, Walter “Trip” Bussey of Atlanta, GA, step-daughters, Stephanie Bussey (John Riter) of Singapore, Maria Malson McCormick (Tim) of Tappan, NY, grandsons, Marty Grigg of Las Vegas, Ben Grigg (Susie) of Chicago, IL, brother, Robert Grigg (Barbara) of Davis, CA, sister, Mary Thelma Knobeloch (Garth) East Peoria, IL, and a host of other family and friends.

Fred was an accomplished engineer and graphic illustrator. He created by hand, incredible cutaway illustrations of machines, engines and components for Caterpillar and other companies including many that won national awards for technique and attention to engineering detail. He and his father owned Grigg Studios in the 1^st National Bank Bldg in downtown Peoria for over 50 years; and with luck, the advancements of computer graphics and his retirement happened at the same time! Computer graphics and politics were always a lively discussed topic during dinner!

We will miss his enthusiasm for spear fishing in Arkansas followed by afternoons of skiing or just floating on the lake and “cooling off”. Earlier in his life, neighbors will remember him and Jim restoring Corvettes in their garage and with Donna, the evenings and dinners with many friends, whether at the little house on the Rome River Road, or the farm in Dunlap. Fred and Donna retired to Arkansas in 2002 and one of the hardest things to leave behind were their Bradley Basketball Season tickets, Donna’s well loved horse Solo and many friends and relatives. In Arkansas, Fred continued to spear fish; he and Donna would have fried catfish, or Sunday chicken dinner (and –of-course-pie!), down at Shangri-La. They also became Arkansas Razorback fans. In his final months, he was still watching games, listening to music and drinking Crystal Light on their screened in porch.

We will all miss Fred’s hearty “hello Darlin” welcome whenever we entered their home! He was an extraordinary man, who made everyone in his life feel welcome and loved.

Visitation will be Saturday, December 2, 2017, 11:00 a.m. at Wright and Salmon Mortuary 2416 N. North Street, in Peoria, IL. A Memorial Service will follow immediately at 12:00 p.m. at Wright and Salmon Mortuary. Arrangements under the direction of Thornton Funeral Home in Mount Ida, AR. Guest may register their thoughts and condolences at www.thorntonfh.com.