Ronald Robert Grassi

Ronald Robert Grassi, 76, a lifelong resident of Walla Walla, died on Wednesday, April 3, 2013 in Camas, Washington.

He was born to the late Emma and Carlo Grassi on April 17, 1936 in Walla Walla, WA. He later married Janice Johnson and they raised their family in Walla Walla.

A graduate of Walla Walla High School class of 1954, he attended Gonzaga University where he studied Engineering and Music. Ron worked on the railroad for the Union Pacific as a brakeman. He drove truck for the local Coca-Cola bottler in town. For several years, he was a guard at the Walla Walla Penitentiary. He worked for his father at Grassi Refrigeration and would later start his own business, Ron’s Refrigeration that he owned and operated for 15 years.

Ron was member of the First Church of the Nazarene where he was actively involved in the choir until his failing health. He loved to sing and remained musically active most of his life. Ron loved the outdoors, going for drives and was an avid sports fan. He enjoyed spending time with his family.

Ron is survived by two children: Julie Grassi of Vancouver, WA and Mark Grassi of Vancouver, WA, a granddaughter, Maddie Martin of Vancouver, WA. He is also survived by numerous aunts, nieces and nephews. Ron is preceded in death by both parents and his wife, Francis Klone.

The Memorial Funeral Service will be held on Monday, April 15, 2013 at 11:00 AM at the Amazing Grace Church of the Nazarene with Rev. Ron Alexander officiating. There will be a private family interment. Memorial contributions may be made to the Amazing Grace Church of the Nazarene, American Heart Association or the American Diabetes Foundation through the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W. Alder, Walla Walla, WA. A reception will follow at Amazing Grace Church of the Nazarene.