William D. Groft

William Dale Groft, 88, of Blairsville, PA passed away on Tuesday, November 8, 2016 at Life Care Hospitals of Pittsburgh, Monroeville, PA.

The son of Oscar and Edna (Overdorff) Groft, he was born September 13, 1928 in Blairsville, PA.

Mr. Groft was a member of SS Simon & Jude Roman Catholic Church, Blairsville.

He graduated from Blairsville High School in 1947 and worked for Westinghouse Specialty Metals, Blairsville, for over 30 years, retiring in 1990.

He was a veteran of the Army, having served in the Korean War.

Mr. Groft was very active in Blairsville Little League for 20 plus years, loved to follow Blairsville sports teams and Pittsburgh teams, was an avid bowler and liked to golf.

His life was dedicated to the happiness and care of his family and was a beloved and caring member of the Blairsville community.

Surviving are three children, William E., Groft, Sr. and his wife, Lisa (Urie) Groft of Mt. Pleasant; Robert L. Groft of New Alexandria and Teresa A. Cunkelman and her husband, David of Murrysville; four grandchildren, Kara M. Groft, Lauren S. Cunkelman, William E. Groft, Jr. and Laura E. Groft; great grandson, Kaden Barnhart and a sister, Mary Swartz of Florida.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Anna (Matviya) Groft in 2010; two brothers, Oscar C. and James M. and two infant daughters.

The family will receive friends from 4 to 7 P.M. Friday at the Shoemaker Funeral Home, Inc., 49 N. Walnut St., Blairsville, PA where a Wake service will be held at 6:30 P.M. Friday. Prayers of transfer will be said at 9:15 A.M. Saturday at the funeral home followed by a funeral Mass at 10:00 A.M. in SS Simon & Jude Roman Catholic Church, Blairsville, with Fr. Stephen R. Bugay as celebrant.

Interment will be in SS Simon & Jude Cemetery, Blairsville, PA.

Military services will be accorded by Blairsville VFW Post #5821 and American Legion Post #0407.