Irvin James "Irv" Grimes, age 92, born May 11, 1933, in Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 2, 2026. He was the beloved son of Robert Charles Grimes and Elizabeth Marie (Fritz) Grimes, and the brother of Donald Allen Grimes—each of whom preceded him in death.

Irv grew up in Cincinnati, where he developed the values that shaped his life: hard work, loyalty, humility, and a quiet inner strength. A proud and decorated United States Marine, he honorably served his country during the Korean War—service he carried with deep pride throughout his life.

After returning home, Irv graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a degree in accounting. He then married the love of his life, Irma "Dorie" Doris Grimes (née Haering). Together they shared 68 extraordinary years—a true partnership built on devotion, respect, faith, and an unwavering commitment to family.

Fueled by determination, optimism, and a relentless work ethic, Irv became a highly respected entrepreneur in the Travel Center industry. Though exceptionally successful, he remained humble, generous, and always willing to extend a helping hand. Above all, Irv was a family man—steadfast, honorable, and dedicated to raising grounded, compassionate, and responsible children.

Irv is survived by his children:  Barbara (Tom) Parsons, Kathleen (Dave) Machisko, Linda Ruzicka (fiancé Chuck Borghi), and David (Veronica) Grimes.

He took immense pride in his grandchildren:  Lisa Marie Thalhammer, Nick (Amanda) Thalhammer, Amanda (Thomas) Milleville, Erin Flynn, Megan Flynn, Kaitlin (TJ) Grybinas, Andy Ruzicka, Marty Ruzicka, Doug Ruzicka, Libby (Nick) Hrabovsky, Anna (fiancé Connor Snelson) Ruzicka, Camille Grimes, and David "Will" Grimes.

He was further blessed with great‑grandchildren who brought him tremendous joy:  Emilia and Lily Thalhammer; Adele, Jonah, and Lucy Milleville; Emma Ahmad; Goldie Grybinas; Opal Grimes; and Baby Hrabovsky, expected in March 2026.

Beyond his devotion to family and business, Irv found a lifelong passion for golf. He spent many cherished days on the greens of Norwood Hills Country Club, where he nurtured enduring, lifelong friendships. Following his early retirement—and inspired by his love of the game—he and Dorie relocated to Naples, Florida. There they spent more than 30 remarkable years in the Sun Belt: golfing and dining at Quail Creek Country Club, soaking up sunshine at The Brighton, and enjoying leisurely days at Pelican Marsh.

Irv delighted in life's simple joys: fishing, boating, bowling, grilling for family dinners, and a good game of gin rummy (a tribute to his Cincinnati roots). These everyday pleasures became lasting memories for the people he loved most.

Those who knew Irv will remember his strong moral compass, generous spirit, gentle humor, and the steady, welcoming presence he brought into every room. Even at 92, he remained very much "in charge." He was a devoted son, brother, nephew, husband, father, uncle, grandfather, and great‑grandfather. His absence will be felt profoundly, and his legacy—one of integrity, love, resilience, and service—will continue through the many lives he touched.  He will be deeply missed and forever celebrated in the hearts of all who loved him.

Irv was recently preceded in death by his cherished wife, Irma "Dorie" Grimes, and a Catholic Mass and joint Celebration of Life for both Irv and Dorie will be held in Spring 2026.

SERVICES:

Friday, April 24, 2026
4pm-7pm
Visitation at Ortmann Stipanovich Funeral Home
12444 Olive Blvd., Creve Coeur, MO. 63141

Saturday April 25, 2026
11am Mass at Incarnate Word Catholic Church
13416 Olive Blvd, Chesterfield, MO  63017
Honor Guard Ceremony following at Incarnate Word

Saturday April 25, 2026
1-5pm All are invited to join the family at WingHaven Country Club
7777 Winghaven Blvd., O'Fallon, MO  63368

Monday April 27, 2026
9:30am Jefferson Barracks Cemetery Ceremony
9:00am Procession from Ortmann Stipanovich
12444 Olive Blvd., Creve Coeur, MO. 63141

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to
thefreedom13.org
Or
"The Friendship Foundation" serving Friendship Village Hospice
Mailed to Friendship Village Sunset Hills
12563 Village Circle Dr
Sunset Hills, MO. 63127
Attn: Sue Champion

Ortmann Stipanovich Funeral Home
www.osfuneralhomes.com