Wilbur Harold Groseclose

Wilbur H. Groseclose 86, born October 15, 1924 in Indianapolis to Walter and Grace Groseclose, died August 3, 2011. Wilbur grew up on Indy's Westside graduating from George Washington High School in 1942. During his youth he served as a lifeguard and competed on the swim team at Rodius Park winning several ribbons and awards. Wilbur was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army after serving his Country during WWII. When he returned to the States he held various jobs before joining the Indianapolis Fire Department in 1951. He retired in 1989 as a Captain after 38 years serving the people of his community. Wilbur worked hard to provide for his family, always working a second job. Through the years he worked at Jenn Aire, Indiana Display, Real Estate, Midland Tire Supply Company, Flag and Banner and Central Hardware. Wilbur was also a member of the International Association of Fire Fighters, Local 416 Retired Fire Fighters Club, and Speedway American Legion. Wilbur was an avid golfer and huge fan of the sport. There wasn't a weekend when you stopped past that he wasn't watching the Golf Channel on TV - all day. Wilbur was also very creative. He would draw and paint pictures and portraits but his favorite hobby was his ceramics. He would often take completed pieces to the IFD Union Hall and sell them to other Firefighters, donating the profits to the Children's Burn Foundation. Preceding him in death in addition to his parents are seven siblings, four brothers, Elvin, Roy, Eugene and Milburn; and three sisters Doris, Vivian and Edith Aileen. Wilbur is survived by his wife, Viola M. (Phillips) Groseclose, children Connie Groseclose; David (Terri) Groseclose; Gail Larsen; and one granddaughter, Amy Larsen who was the only one who ALWAYS put a smile on his face and sparkle in his eyes; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation will be Monday, August 8, 2011 from 4 to 8 p.m., with funeral services on Tuesday, August 9, 2011 at 11 a.m. in Flanner and Buchanan Funeral Center - Washington Park North , 2706 Kessler Blvd, West Drive, Indianapolis. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Survive Alive, c/o Indianapolis Fire Dept, Indianapolis, Indiana 46204. Additionally, there will be Celebration of his Life at Robin Run Villages, 6354 W. 62nd Street, Indianapolis, Indiana on August 9, 2011 at 2 p.m. You are invited to go to the Guest Book page to pass along your personal message or tell a story. Sincerely, -Your friends at Flanner and Buchanan