John C. Groft, Sr., 95 of Hanover was called to Heaven by the Lord on Sunday, October 16, 2022.  He waited 10, 128 days to once again be with the love of his life, Pauline M. (Wildasin) Groft, whom he affectionately called "Polly G.".  They were married on August 2, 1947, and his beloved wife preceded him in death in 1995.

Born February 3, 1927, he was a son of the late Henry G. and Regina (Sneeringer) Groft.

Known to his loving children as "Daddy", John's family was everything to him.  Daddy retired from Cole Steel in York / Hanover and held part-time jobs at Rest Haven Cemetery and Pretzels Plus.

Not only was Daddy spoiled, he was a huge junk-food junky.  From ice cream to Oreos, he never said no to a sugary treat.  He loved Penn State College football and the Yankees, and he attended many NASCAR races in Dover, DE.  Daddy was also an avid bowler for years, and he rolled in many different leagues and tournaments.  He was a past trustee and past president of the Eagles #1406.  Dad & Mom earned the only "Mr. & Mrs. Eagle" award ever given out at the Hanover Eagles.  Daddy was also a member of McSherrystown Home, as well as the Hanover VFW.

Daddy proudly served in the U.S. Navy and was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Hanover.  He adored his family, the holidays and those great-big family meals, and he was even known to have an adult beverage or two.  He had a great life, and will be sadly missed by his whole family.  Rest in peace, Daddy.  We love you.

Mr. Groft is survived by all 12 of his children: John (the late Margaret), George "the Prince" (the late Carol Jean), Barry (Bonnie), Jerry (Julie), Jeff (Jeannie), Pat "the princess" Yelton (the late Garry), "Chatty Kathy" Bull (Wayne), Tom (Annette), Anita "the Dutchess" (partner, Ray), Bruce, Mike (partner, Robert) and "Baby Boy" Andy (Therese), as well as way too many grand, great-grand and great-great-grandkids to count.

In addition to his parents and his beloved wife, he was preceded in death by five siblings: Ed, Frank, Mary Catherine, Anna Louise and Cyril.

A Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate John's life will be held on Friday, October 21 ^st at 11am at St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church; 5125 Grandview Road; Hanover, PA 17331 with Rev. Msgr. James Lyons officiating.  Interment will follow in Rest Haven Cemetery in Hanover.  A time to share memories and an opportunity to view will be on Thursday, October 20 ^th from 6-8pm at Wetzel Funeral Home & Crematory; 549 Carlisle St. in Hanover, and again at the Church on Friday morning from 10am until the start of the Mass.

The family extends their gratitude, and prays that God Bless the Angels from the Hanover / Spring Grove Visiting Nurses Association for the kind and attentive care they provided for John.

For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to VNA / Hospice: 440 N. Madison St.; Hanover, PA 17331, or online by visiting vnahanover.org

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