Larry D. "Bud" Grinder

Larry Duane “Bud” Grinder, age 73, of Port Huron, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, December 26, 2024. He was born on October 30, 1951, in Kittanning, PA, to Donald and Hannah Grinder, and was raised in Apollo, PA. Larry married Judith Spring on December 30, 1972, and together they raised two daughters, Andrea and Karen. The additions of son-in-law, Andrew Paul, and grandchildren, Casie, Camden, Brynn, Mallory, and Grant, brought Bud great joy.

Bud earned degrees from Marion College, IN, and Wayne State University, MI. For the majority of Bud’s 34-year career in the Port Huron Area School District, he taught health and physical education in grades K-8. His love of teaching and sports resulted in coaching varied sports for grades 8-12 throughout his career.

Sports were a highlight of Bud’s life. He enjoyed playing football in high school, soccer in college, and later volleyball, basketball, and church softball, in which he both coached and pitched. Bud earned the nickname “Wheels Grinder” for his style of running and (questionable) speed. In the fall, Bud could be found almost every Friday night at Memorial Stadium attending PHN and PHHS football games. Summer provided time for additional beloved activities: boating, swimming, and traveling.

In 2017 Bud received the diagnosis of Frontotemporal dementia from the University of Michigan. Because there is no cure or treatment for FTD, Bud agreed to become part of a clinical trial through U of M, and, upon death, his organs were donated to continue their research. As Bud declined he became bedbound in 2021. His most recent years have been filled with special times with family, friends, and caregivers. One activity he especially enjoyed was playing catch.

Bud is survived by his wife, Judy; daughter, Andrea (Andrew) Paul and children Casie and Camden; daughter, Karen Dowden and children Brynn, Mallory, and Grant; sister, Amy (Nolan) Hauser; brother-in-law, Steve (Tara) Mitchell; brother-in-law, Jerry Spring; sister-in-law, Debbie (Dave) Ingalls; and extended family. Bud was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Becky Mitchell; and sister-in-law, Bonnie Spring.

A memorial service will be held in the summer of 2025. Instead of flowers, donations may be made to an organization of the donor's choice.

Psalms 100:5 - For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.

Arrangements are by Pollock-Randall Funeral Home. To send condolences, visit pollockrandall.com