Richard “Rick” August Grihalva Jr., 80 of Valparaiso, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, October 8, 2024. He was born on June 28, 1944 in San Diego, CA to Richard A. and Virginia M. (Shaffer) Grihalva and graduated from Point Loma High School. Rick went on to attend the University of Oregon-Eugene, UC Berkeley for his BA in Cellular Physiology and MBA in Accounting, Autonomous University-Guadalajara, and Guadalajara University. With his extensive education and experience, he made his career as an entrepreneur; his business ventures include Grihalva Associates and Executive Insights, both in California, and Forever in Stitches in Valparaiso. He was a member at Calvary Church and of the String-A-Long Quilt Guild in Valparaiso.
Rick was the definition of a people person, constantly on his phone chatting people up—a top notch communicator. If you were one of those lucky people, you probably heard him say “one large Coca-Cola!” in the McDonald’s drive thru while on the phone with you. His keen sense of humor allowed him to see the humor in every situation. He loved music, was a gifted pianist, and was even a choir director for a time. What didn’t Rick do or enjoy? Let’s not forget his talent for cooking, especially his famous chipped beef on toast (SOS) and standing rib roasts. Above all, he was a passionate follower of Christ and loved his family. His joking personality, steadfast faith, and dedication and love for his community will be deeply missed.
On July 8, 1990, Richard married Ruth L. Peter, who survives, along with children: Tanya Sara (Ken) Boliba, Damian Richard (Christy) Grihalva, Bradford Daniel Grihalva, Carrisa Dawn Grihalva, and Peter Evan (Ann) Grihalva; grandchildren: Ken Jr., Alexa, Matthew, Sean, James, Korey, Isabella, Sequoia, Shelby, Xander, Banyan, and Matthias; great-grandchild, Aston; and many loving extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Bonnie Jean Thomas.
A Celebration of Life will be held on October 26, 2024 at 10:30 am CST with a time of fellowship to follow at Calvary Church, 1325 Evans Ave, Valparaiso, Indiana.
GUESTBOOK
I am so so sorry to read this about Richard. I enjoyed talking to him always when I was in the quilt shop. I no there is no words to take away your pain, in time it will fade. Keep Richard close at heart and he will be with you always. My deepest condolences to all. -Mary Marrow
To Ruth, Peter and family, we send our sympathy. We are glad to have known Rick and enjoyed being at Trinity, Jenera, with him. -John and Esther Spaeth
I only knew Rick over the phone. From our first conversation Rick’s sense of humor and depth of knowledge really made him a pleasure to speak with. He was always so kind and generous with sharing his insights on any topic we talked about. Through our conversations, it was very clear how much he loved Ruth and their family. It was also clear how much he loved serving the Lord. It has been a privilege to get to know you, Rick. Your work, friendship and love for life and family will always be with me, it is now time to rest. Peace. -John and Ginger Weiksnar
To my uncle Rick. Thank you for connecting with me in recent years to tell me great stories of my grandparents & great-grandparents. I always enjoyed talking with you and you will be deeply missed. My heartfelt & deepest condolences to Ruth, and all my cousins, and all of uncle Ricks extended families & friends of which I am sure there are many. -Michael Richard Sada
Sadness and much love to the family members and friends of our uncle Ricky….all the lord’s blessings and heartfelt condolences. -Michelle Sada
