Richard Gronke

MISSOULA ~ Richard Gronke, 80, of Missoula, Montana passed away on Wednesday, February 22, 2023 at Community Hospital.

He was born on June 12, 1942, in Webster, South Dakota, to Jacob and Leocadia Gronke. He grew up on the family farm in Grenville, South Dakota. He lived in Missoula, Montana for the past 40 plus years and was a retired long haul truck driver.

He married Marilyn Walsh in October 1969. They had four children together (Dawn, Denise, Cody and Denielle). Richard later adopted another daughter, Tonya Robert (Tracy).

Richard is preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Ernest, Jackie, and Danny and his sisters Laura, Linda and his great-grandchild. He is survived by his brother Barry, his sisters Gladys, Alice, Diane, Katie, and Susie, his ex-wife Marilyn, his 5 children, 8 grandchildren (Ashleigh, Dakota, Denean (Michael), Brittnee, Cody, Autumne, Doug and Paige) and 2 step great-grandchildren (Thomas and Jacob).

Richard loved spending time with his family and his social time having breakfast at the Forest Lounge and visiting with all the patrons.

Per Richard’s wishes the family is having a private entombment at Sunset Memorial Funeral Gardens. A Celebration of Life will be held later in the year.

Please donate to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital in Richard’s name instead of sending flowers.

Arrangements are under the care of Sunset Memorial Funeral Home and Crematory in Missoula.