William H. Grover

William H. Grover, 83, passed away peacefully at home on Oct. 19, 2021. Bill will be remembered by his family and friends for his down-to-earth charm, humility, wry sense of humor, creativity and intellect. He is survived by his loving wife, two daughters, son-in law, and two step-brothers and their families, as well as his dear friends, and two devoted caregivers.

Growing up in Ithaca, NY, Bill wanted to be “an inventor” when he grew up. A lifelong confluence of science and art ensued, from engineering and industrial design in his studies and early career, to a well-respected reputation in architecture over the following decades. A fellow of the American Institute of Architecture, his alma maters include Cornell University, Art Center College of Design, and Yale Architecture School. He was a founding and central member of what is today Centerbrook Architects. Among other projects, Bill worked on numerous Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory buildings for over 30 years, as well as several projects for Phillips Exeter Academy.

Bill loved watercolor painting, twice restored a 1949 MG-TC (once as a teenager and then again in retirement), and he also loved music, playing coronet in the Moving Target Jazz Band and the Corinthian Jazz Band. He also enjoyed small-boat racing sailing at Pettipaug Yacht Club, the Frostbite Yacht Club, and the Essex Yacht Club. He enthusiastically served a term as President of the Essex Land Trust.

Bill will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Those wishing to pay their respects to him may do so at Robinson, Wright & Weymer in Centerbrook, CT, at a visitation on Thurs. Oct 21 between 6 and 8pm. A Celebration of Life Ceremony will be held in the summer of 2022. Memorial contributions in Bill’s name may be made to the Essex Land Trust, the Essex Art Association, or a charity of the donor’s choice.

To share a memory of Bill or send a condolence to his family please visit www.rwwfh.com