Archie R. Grimes

Archie Ray Grimes of Jewell, passed away on Monday, March 10, 2025 at the age of 96. He was born on March 17, 1928, in Paulding County, Brown Township, to Frank and Myrta (Adams) Grimes.

He graduated from Oakwood High School in 1946.  He enlisted in the United States Army and served in the Korean War from 1950 to 1952.
Archie was employed at Swifts Ice Cream factory in Defiance, where he met his future wife, Carol M. Gee, who survives. They were married on November 7, 1954, at Independence United Methodist Church. They were blessed with 70 years of marriage. 

Archie spent most of his career as a truck driver for Norwalk Truck Lines and others. After retiring in 1986, he worked part time, delivering produce, for Chase Farms. He was an active member of the Jewell Legion #635 and a faithful member of Independence United Methodist Church, where he served as treasurer and Sunday School Superintendent. He enjoyed many years of vacation with his family to Indian River, Michigan, playing cards and fishing.  He bowled for many years and was a lifelong fan of the Detroit Tigers and Lions. 
Archie was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather many times over. His most treasured time was spent with family. His smile, spirit and caring nature will be truly missed by all those who knew him.

He is survived by his wife, Carol, his loving children Greg Grimes of Jewell, Pat (Todd) Brink of Defiance, Pam (Rick) Ledford of Shepherdsville, KY, and Penney (Rick) Raabe of Cheboygan, MI. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, 5 great-great-grandchildren, his sister, Laura, along with numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Verlin, Bob, Donald and John and sisters, Elsie and Lois.

Visitation will be on Friday, March14, 2025 from 2:00 pm-8:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home South, Lawson/Roessner Chapel (1753 S. Clinton Street) in Defiance. A funeral service will be at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 15th at Independence United Methodist Church, 09966 Adams Ridge Road, Defiance, with Vicar Alan Fuhrhop officiating. There will be one hour of additional visitation before the service at the church. Archie will be laid to rest in Independence United Methodist Cemetery, with Military Honors conducted by VFW #3360. 

 
Memorial gifts can be directed to Independence United Methodist Church or CHP Defiance Area Hospice. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Archie R. Grimes, please visit our floral store.