Denise Ann Grof

Denise Ann Grof, age 66, of Orlando, FL, passed away on November 7, 2023, in Orlando. She was born on August 14, 1957, in Hartford, Connecticut. Denise was a perfect wife, mother, grandmother, and friend to many. Throughout her life, she selflessly helped everyone in any way she could.

Denise was actively involved in the South Orange Little League and Orlando Jr. Magic basketball. She dedicated 25 years as an advanced catechist at Holy Cross Church in Orlando, FL, and Holy Redeemer Catholic School in Kissimmee, FL, both located within the Diocese of Orlando. Denise's passion for education led her to become a preschool and Kindergarten teacher at Holy Redeemer Catholic School. Unfortunately, she had to retire due to the COVID outbreak as she was on kidney dialysis.

Denise was widely known in the South Orlando area for her holiday decorations and baking. She would tirelessly bake throughout the year and deliver her delicious treats to various businesses, building lifelong friendships along the way. On August 14, 2023, Denise received a long-awaited kidney transplant from an anonymous donor. Although the kidney was functioning properly, a blood clot tragically took Denise from us. In her final act of selflessness, Denise donated her corneas to a young girl who had lost her sight four years ago, giving her the gift of vision once again.

Denise is survived by her loving husband of 45 years, Mark Grof Sr., her two sons, Mark Grof Jr. (39) and Brian Grof (36), her grandson, Mark Grof III (16), her granddaughters, Lexi Grof (17) and Madi Teller (15), her daughter-in-law, Brittany Grof (37), and her beloved dog, Kobe. She is also survived by her two nephews, Ronald and Alexander Forsythe, her brother-in-law, Edward Forsythe, and her niece, Mary Lou Forsythe.

Denise was preceded in death by her father, Camille LeBlanc, her mother, Alberta Beadle, her father-in-law, John L. Grof, her mother-in-law, Victoria M. Grof, and her uncle, Albert D. Latino.

Denise obtained a degree in childcare from the OCPS Career and Technical program and was inducted into the National Technical Honor Society on May 6, 2015.

A celebration of Denise's life will be held on Sunday, November 12, 2023, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Family Funeral Care, located at 13001 South John Young Parkway, Orlando, FL 32837.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Advent Health Transplant Institute in Orlando, Florida, in honor of Denise's memory.

Family Funeral Care of Orlando, FL, is assisting with the arrangements.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.dignitymemorial.com for the Grof family.