Richard H. Grushon

Richard H. Grushon, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and cherished educator, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, and love. Born on October 28, 1933, in Dayton, Ohio, Richard lived a life dedicated to education and service, touching countless lives during his renowned 45-year career as an educator and principal with Kalamazoo Public Schools.

Richard was the devoted husband of the late Sally Brouwer Grushon, whom he met at a freshman mixer at Miami University. Their marriage was the definition of partnership and they were affectionately referred to by family and friends as a true "Miami Merger." In fact, their years of retirement led them back to Oxford, Ohio where their story began. Together, they fostered a nurturing family environment. Richard was proud of his "three wonderful daughters," Deborah (David) Johnson, Becky (Mark) Ehrnstrom, and Mary Elizabeth (Scott) McKenzie. Richard cherished each moment with his grandchildren, Meridyth (Cameron) Walston, Mason (Kelly) Johnson, Emily and Ethan Ehrnstrom, and Molly and Maty McKenzie. He was also a proud great-grandfather to Clara, Celeste, and Jett.

As an educator, Richard made a profound impact on the lives of countless students, instilling in them a love of learning and a sense of pride. He possessed a bright smile and a kind heart, always ready to share a joke or a tease. He was a devoted member of Zion Lutheran Church in Kalamazoo, demonstrating his commitment to serving his faith and community. During his time in Oxford, he regularly attended Miami University events, particularly athletics and Glee Club performances. He was an active member of the Red & White Club whose primary purpose is to provide annual scholarship funding to Miami University student-athletes. Giving back to the University and young students was always deeply important to him. Similarly, during his retirement in Oxford he was an active member of the Kiwanis Club and never missed a chance to serve at the annual pancake breakfast. His vibrant personality earned him numerous friendships, and he was later affectionately known as the "Mayor of Pinebrook," where he spent the last 13 years of his life in Milford, Ohio.

In his leisure time, Richard enjoyed cultivating his perennials and maintaining a pristine lawn. His passion for life extended to riding his beloved Schwinn bicycle, a hobby he continued to enjoy well into his 90's. He adored hosting Lawrence Welk parties in his apartment (with cookies of course!) on Saturday nights with his fellow residents at Pinebrook. Additionally, he was an avid stamp collector, lover of all ice cream and sweets, enjoyed Peanuts comics, was a devoted Cincinnati Reds fan and was an avid card player, especially Hearts.

Richard H. Grushon will be dearly missed, but his legacy of joy, integrity, and zest for life will forever live on in the hearts of those he touched.

A graveside service will be held for family and friends, beginning at 3 PM on Friday, June 5th at the Roselawn Cemetery, 601 N. Main Street, Lewisburg, OH 45338.

Memorial donations may be made to:

The Miami University Foundation (for the teachers of education scholarship) in memory of Richard Grushson (add in the memo #3916-001) and mail to 725 East Chestnut, Oxford, OH 45056

And/or

A fund to purchase a glider bench in his memory to the Pinebrook of Milford facility. Donations can be sent C/O Becky Ehrnstrom, 4260 Lynden Rd. Shelbyville, MI 49344