Robert Groves

Robert Earl Groves, 94, Formally of OdessaMidland, passed away peacefully on July 23, 2008.

Born in Benedict, Kansas on October 12, 1913, Earl was the son of Lester Groves and Nellie Patty Groves.

He moved to Roswell, New Mexico where he graduated from high school. It was there where he met his love, Wilba Hoffman Groves. They were married in the First United Methodist Church in Roswell in 1938 and moved to Odessa, Texas.

Earl proudly served his country in the Air Force during World War II. He was active in the First United Methodist Church in Odessa and St. Lukes Methodist Church in Midland. He was also a member of the International Petroleum Accountant Society. After working for Cities Service Oil Company for over 40 years he retired as a Division Administrative Manager in Midland, Texas. He and his wife lived in Midland until 2004 when they moved to Austin, Texas to be near their family, especially his much adored granddaughter.

He is survived by his son, Robert Groves, M.D. and wife Cindy; and his only grandchild, Jacqueline Groves of Austin, Texas. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 70 years, Wilba Groves; parents, Lester and Nellie Groves; brother, Everett Groves; and sisters, Sammie Buchly and Helen Hilton.

A graveside service will be held Monday, July 28, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at South Park Cemetery, Roswell, New Mexico with Gorton Smith of First United Methodist Church officiating.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Ballard Funeral Home and Crematory. An online registry can be accessed at www.ballardfuneralhome.com

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