John E. Grimes, 97, of Defiance,  passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, November 8, 2017.  
  
He was born on November 2, 1920 to Frank and Myrta (Adams) Grimes  in Oakwood, Ohio. In 1944 John enlisted in the U.S. Army, and proudly served our country during WWII.  On November 7, 1948 he married Phyllis (Moorehead) Grimes, who preceded him in death on May 20, 2008. 
  
John was a member of  Trinity United Methodist Church, and DAV in Defiance. He was a truck driver for several years at Norwalk Truck Lines, retiring in 1977.   After his retirement he spent his winters in Texas. John enjoyed playing cards with his family. He loved fishing and traveling all over the country.
  
John will be sadly missed by his son, Douglas (Judy) Grimes of Defiance, daughter, Michele (Jack) McDermott of Garland, TX, five grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren, brother, Archie (Carol) Grimes of Jewell, OH, sisters, Elsie Mae Harshman of Clarksville, IN, and Laura Bosh of Defiance. 
  
In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by brothers, Verlin, Robert, and Donald Grimes, sister, Lois Heilshorn, and grandson, Jeffrey Grimes.
  
Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 8:00 pm on Sunday, November 12, 2017 at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, November 13th at Schaffer Funeral Home, with Rev. Clarence Dinnen officiating.  Entombment will follow the service at Riverview Memory Gardens, with military rites accorded by VFW #3360.
  
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Great Lakes Hospice. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.