Former Chesterton resident Thomas R. Groff of Valparaiso died Sunday, Feb. 1, 2009 at Canterbury Nursing Home in Valparaiso. He was 52.

Born on December 30, 1956 in Valparaiso, he was the son of Eugene G. and Betty (Johnson) Groff.

He is survived by his father, Eugene Groff, of Chesterton;  brothers Michael Groff of Chesterton and Cary Groff of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; sister Jamie Cunningham (husband Mark) of Valparaiso; nieces Lindsay and Jessica; great nephews Jacob and Joshua; and great niece, Lily.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Betty, in 1996. 

Born with cerebral palsy, Tom attended school at the LaPorte County therapy center and later went to work at Opportunity Enterprises in Valparaiso. Throughout his life, Tom’s attitude was always positive and his fight always valiant. He will be greatly missed.

A private family service will be held with interment at Chesterton Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Opportunity Enterprises. Arrangements were handled by Edmonds & Evans Funeral Home 517 Broadway, Chesterton. www.ee-fh.com

Posted 2/3/2009