"It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of a beloved father.

Alfred J Grooms of Valentine, NE, was born on April 7th, 1945, and passed away on January 14th, 2022. Alfred was the second oldest son of George and Sylvia Grooms. He is survived by his oldest son James Grooms, daughter Stephanie Grooms Herschi, and twin sons Matthew and Nathan Grooms.

Alfred was known as someone with a humorous wit and an innate ability to articulate his thoughts and opinions. He was someone that never shied away from speaking his mind, even if it meant ruffling a few feathers or challenging the status quo.

Alfred's intellectual curiosity and love for history is what truly and uniquely set him apart. Alfred was indeed quite inquisitive and dedicated endless hours to studying and learning about people, places, and historical events he found fascinating. His curiosity and passion for history was contagious and he loved sharing his knowledge with anyone who would listen.

Alfred possessed a rare talent for carpentry, drawing, and working with his hands. He had a passion for creating beautiful things out of wood and would often use this to display his love for his children. One day, he decided to use his skills to build his children a treehouse that they could enjoy and play in. He spent countless hours designing and constructing the treehouse, making sure that every detail was perfect. When it was finally finished, it was complete with an access ladder, a hinged door and window, tiled A- frame roof, a deck, and even indoor carpeting. Alfred's children were overjoyed and spent every moment they could playing in their new treehouse. The treehouse quickly became a beloved gathering spot for all the children in the neighborhood and Alfred's love for his children was evident in every board and nail that held it together.

In addition to working with his hands, one of Alfred's favorite hobbies was playing golf. In fact, Alfred was known for being an exceptionally talented golfer in his younger years. Alfred's twin sons reflect that some of their fondest memories of their father are of the hours they spent on the golf course being passionately taught the game of golf by their father.

Alfred's love for his children was especially evident in his final years as he preferred to spend much of his well feeling hours chatting on the phone with his sons. He was deeply proud of each of his children and spoke admirably about them to his friends. His children will always remember him for his intellectual curiosity, witty humor and unwavering love.

Alfred will be deeply missed by his family and friends. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him.

Rest in peace, dear friend. You will be forever loved and missed."

Memorial service for Al Grooms, age 76 of Valentine will be held on Sunday, July 2, 2023, at 2:00 PM at Sandoz Chapel of the Pines. A private family graveside service will be held at the Sparks Cemetery.  Mr. Grooms passed away on January 14, 2022, in Valentine.

Survivors

Son-James of Kansas City

Daughter-Stephanie Hiersche of Kansas City

Sons-Mathew & Nathan both of Denver