Michael L. Grunkemeyer of Williamsburg and formerly of Cincinnati, OH, died peacefully Monday, May 8, 2017, at the age of 69.
Mike was the beloved husband of 47 years to Tricia (Barton) Grunkemeyer; and devoted father of Katie (Brad) Mayfield of Allen, Tx., Carrie (Matt) Robeson of Richmond, Va., Kevin Grunkemeyer of Baltimore, Md., and Meghan Grunkemeyer of Baltimore, Md. Mike was the proud grandfather (PopPop) to his five grandchildren, Madeline and Michael Mayfield of Allen, Texas, and Griffin, Whitney and Payton Robeson of Richmond, Va. He is also survived by his sister, Shirley (Spencer) Cowles of Harrisonburg, Va.; and brother, Joe Grunkemeyer of Ellijay, Ga.; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Mary Jane Grunkemeyer of Cincinnati, OH; and sister-in-law, Patricia (Loggins) Grunkemeyer.
Mike was a graduate of Purcell High School in Cincinnati, OH, (1965) and The University of Cincinnati (1969). Mike began his professional career with Gillette and Mutual Supply before joining Ferguson Enterprises in 1983. He served as president and general manager of the Tampa and Dallas locations. In 1991, Mike relocated to Ferguson’s Corporate Headquarters fulfilling many executive leadership roles including serving as Ferguson’s senior V.P. of Business Development to becoming director of Business Development for its parent company, Wolseley, PLC. He retired in 2009 and later became one of the company’s first retired executives elected to its board of directors.
Mike treasured his time mentoring colleagues and associates and was known for thinking outside the box, big-picture resolutions and living out the quote of his childhood hero, Davey Crockett: “Be always sure you are right – then go ahead.” In 2012, he went on to fulfill a lifelong dream of starting a family company with his children, ENTOS, LLC.
Mike worked hard to provide for his adoring family and loved traveling with his wife, Tricia, family and dear friends. He especially cherished time at his home in Williamsburg with loved ones and his annual family beach week in the Outer Banks, N.C. Mike will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
He was a big believer that “charity begins at home.” In lieu of flowers, please celebrate your life with experiences and spend time with those you love in his honor.
His family will receive guests from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, May 12, at Nelsen Funeral Home, 3875 Strawberry Plains Rd., Williamsburg.
