Robert P. Grinnell Jr., 76, aka SANTA BOB, of Mesa, AZ, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 16, 2021 after a long battle with cancer. Robert is survived by his children Kristen and Eoin Hammonds, Marisa and JC Valandra, Aaron and Luann Grinnell, and Leah Grinnell. Grandchildren: Curtis and Toni Hammonds, Payton and Noah Valandra. Former wife: Mary Grinnell. Sisters: Karen Buszczak, Linda Fox, Lori Houlihan, and Wendy Turner. Robert is preceded in death by his son Anthony Grinnell and his parents Robert and Louis Grinnell.
Robert had many occupations in his life ranging from a respiratory therapist, working for Xerox and being a financial planner. One day several decades ago, he put on a Santa suit and discovered the magic. Being Santa was his most favorite thing in the world. He loved giving to needy families each year and seeing the joy that brought to others. He enjoyed volunteering at various organizations that included St. Vincent de Paul, Phoenix Children’s Hospital and Hospice of the Valley. He was a loving father, grandfather and friend to all.
A special thank you to Hospice of the Valley for their loving care and tremendous support. Also, a special thank you to Mountain View Funeral Home for helping with the arrangements.
Funeral will be March 26, 2021, 11am at St. Patrick Catholic Church: 10815 N 84th St., Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Memorial donations can be made to St. Vincent de Paul.
In his words “IT’S A BEAUTIFUL DAY!”
Sending love and prayers to all of the family. Love, Sara & Linda
Had no idea Bob had passed! I helped him several Christmases to organize toys ! He returned the favor by showing up to to provide the Heather Gonzalez family! The neighborhood kids were blown away! Good times!
Sending love and prayers to all of the family. Love, Sara & Linda
Had no idea Bob had passed! I helped him several Christmases to organize toys ! He returned the favor by showing up to to provide the Heather Gonzalez family! The neighborhood kids were blown away! Good times!