Canton's Beloved Assistant Coach Richard "Dick" Grove Passes Away
A quiet and proud hero of Canton
October 10, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on October 10, 2026
Richard "Dick" G. Grove, a cherished assistant coach and longtime Canton resident, died peacefully on October 8, 2026, at age 72. Though details remain private, his community impact endures.
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Grove, a 1971 Canton High School alumnus, served in the Air National Guard before dedicating decades to the Canton Fire Department. A 2013 retirement marked the end of a distinguished public service career.
Active in the Canton Elks Lodge #626 and St. Jude Run fundraisers, he balanced family devotion with civic engagement. Married to Sharon Cook for 46 years until her 2026 passing, he is survived by children Jeremy and Tonya, grandchildren Kaley, Dalys, Hunter, and great-grandchild Oakley.
His siblings Mike, Chuck, Greg, Sandra, and Enola predeceased him. Surviving are parents Gayle and Jessie, and brothers Bob, Jim, Gary.
Remembered through his Chicago Cubs fandom and community spirit, Grove spent final days at The Loft. The town mourns with heartfelt tributes, planning a celebration of life Oct 14-15, 2026.
Colleagues and friends honor his legacy as a firefighter, veteran, and advocate. Rest in peace, legend.
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