William Roy Grover

William Roy “Bill” Grover passed away on May 20, 2025, in Salem, Oregon, at the age of 69—on what would have been his parents’ 75th wedding anniversary. Born on January 12, 1956, in Waterloo, Iowa, he was the son of David and Jacqueline Grover and one of six siblings: Debbie Lemon, Kathy Mangra, Jim Grover, Barb Tovrea, and Tommy Grover.

Bill proudly served in the United States military from 1973 to 1979. After his honorable discharge, he built a life in Oregon, working for over 20 years at the Fairview Training Center in Salem. In the 1990s, he ran his own business, Willamette Valley Gutter Supply, and for the past 22 years, he was a loyal and familiar presence at Salem Campground and RV.

Though his formal education ended after the 8th grade, Bill was full of strong opinions, sharp wit, and the kind of wisdom you only get from living life on your own terms. He was adventurous, hitchhiking across the country more than once, driven by equal parts wanderlust and grit. He lived by a simple code—“I won’t mess with you if you don’t mess with me”—but those who knew him best saw the tenderness beneath the edge: a kind, giving soul who forgave easily and loved deeply.

He was a hard worker, a fiercely independent man, and a proud patriot who had a soft spot for eagles, lighthouses, NASCAR, and his beloved New Orleans Saints. Music was sacred to him, especially the timeless sound of Pink Floyd, which could often be heard echoing from wherever he called home. And his sweet tooth? Legendary—he never passed up a bag of M&M’s.

Bill deeply loved his son, Kevin Moore, and ensured his grandchildren—Emelina and Gwendolyn Moore, and Julianna Thompson—were always cared for. To them, he was more than a grandfather—he was a steady, loyal, and quietly loving presence who showed up in his own way, every time.

A viewing will be held at Johnson Funeral Home on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, from 2:30 to 4:30 PM. Bill will also be honored with military rites and laid to rest at the Willamette National Cemetery in Portland on Tuesday June 3rd at 2:30pm.

In honor of Bill’s life, the family invites you to enjoy something sweet, look out for someone you love, or sit in nature and light a J—a simple act of peace he would’ve understood and appreciated. And if a Pink Floyd song comes on, turn it up for him.