Norman S. Groves, Sr.

Norman S. Groves, Sr.

     KEYSER, WV – Norman S. Groves, Sr., of Keyser, WV, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on February 17, 2024.

     Born on March 6, 1938 in Garrett Co., MD he was son of the late Martin L. Groves, Sr. and Grace (Glotfelty) Groves. In addition to his parents, he is also preceded in death by his high school sweetheart and wife of 57 years, Mary Jane “Jani” (Melody) Groves; 6 siblings and their spouses and 10 nieces and nephews.

     He is survived by his children, Dana Stewart and significant other Gregory Donaldson, Keyser, Norman “Scott” Groves, Jr. and wife Michelle , Lewistown, PA and Jennifer Ahern and husband Timothy, Lewistown, PA and his 2 grandchildren, Olivia Jane Ahern of Lewistown, PA and Thierry Washington of Acworth, GA. He is also survived by sisters-in-law, Sharon Melody, Wadsworth, OH, JoAnn Miller, Webster Springs, WV, Judy Melody, Keyser and Trina Melody, Keyser and numerous nieces and nephews.

     Norman was a 1957 graduate of Keyser High School and a member of the 1956 WV State Football Championship Team being selected a WV State All American. In addition to football he lettered in both wrestling and Track and Field. He attended George Washington University on a full Football Scholarship.

     After returning to Keyser he gained employment at Westvaco Pulp and Paper Mill where he retired as a Millright after 42 years of service. A very community oriented man he volunteered countless hours at the Keyser Rescue Squad and served as the little league coach for the national Bank Braves and the Keyser Mini Steelers. He was a member of the Keyser Hall of Fame Selection Committee which he was also an inductee. He was a long standing member of the Loyal Order of Moose #662, Keyser where he enjoyed spending time with great friends especially the late Ockie Hartman.

     Pentecostal by faith he was a member of the Keyser Church of God. 

    A Man of many talents he could build, restore or repair almost anything. He added additions to his homes and completely refinished his basement and perhaps his proudest accomplishment was completely restoring his little cabin at Deep Creek Lake where the family has enjoyed years of memories.

     Norm will be remembered as a loving and generous father, a devoted husband and a loyal friend. He will be missed by all that knew and loved him.

     The children would like to extend our gratitude to WVU Home Health and WVU Hospice Services as Norman transitioned to the next phase of his life and to the New Creek Fire Department and the local Keyser Ambulance services for their aid.

     In the event you would like to make a donation in Norman’s name to the Wounded Warrior Project or St. Jude’s Childrens Hospital that would be greatly appreciated.

     Fly High “Big Norm” until we meet again.

     Friends will be received at the Markwood Funeral Home on Friday, February 23, 2024 from 2:00 – 4:00pm and 6:00pm - 8:00pm. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, February 24, 2024 at 1:00pm with the Reverend Larry Idleman officiating. Inurnment following the funeral services in St. Thomas Cemetery, Keyser.

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