Mr. Gary Lawrence Grose

Gary Lawrence Grose, affecionately called "Poochie," was born on March 6, 1959 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to the union of Resley Oliver Grose (of Clarendon 'Crooked River Jamaica') and Juanita Grose (of Alabama). Gary was the sixth child of six children born to that union Gary (Poochie) went to Washington High School (GO PURGOLERS!) , eventually graduating. Gary accepted Christ in 2005 at Great Faith Progressive Missionary Baptist Church, under the late Pastor Benjamin L. Nabors. He was also fond of going to his little brother's church whenever he had mind to. Gary was an exceptional athlete, a basketball legend in Miltown, and an accomplished artist. You could often find him at Auer Avenue, Clark Street School, Sherman Park or some other playgrounds or gyms across the City, gliding in the air from the free throw line throwing down a "Darrell Dawkins" gorilla dunk or a behind the backboard reverse jam. Or who could ever forget that pull-up jumper one-handed from half court banked in off the backboard. He also played basketball with the likes of former Milwaukee Bucks player Marcus Johnson, Odell Ball and Oliver Lee of the Marquette Warriors, and loved going to see the Globe Trotters whenever they were downtown. While Poochie was well known for his basketball process; he was also known for his quick temper and knockout punch, which the unlikely person or persons to try him often found out as they picked themselves up off the ground. Gary was the original "Deebo," bike and all, before 'Friday.' But I guess what is little known about Gary is that he had a heart of gold for children on the paint, often taking them under his wing and showing them the fundamentals of the game. Oh! Lets not forget his sense of humor and quick witted "cutting" on everyone. Gary loved his three boys, often beaming with pride as he bragged about their abilities and talents, and although his personal demons and trauma of the past kept him from them, Gary never tired of hoping for the best for them. He was particularly proud of his first born for raising nine children and caring for and nurturing his wife, Nicole. Mom summed it up best when she wrote from Tacoma, Washington: "May God bless and keep you. I am yet trusting God. Trusting him to keep you safe in your afterlife. Although you are no longer here, you are a legend and your memory will last forever. My child, my son, a gentle giant, no more worries you may rest now." Love mom Gary left this life (protecting others from harm) on Saturday, June 15, 2024 at Sherman Park. He is preceded in death by his father, Resley Oliver Grose, brother Alverez O. Grose, sister Sharon Grose, brother Ronald Grose, and sister Stephanie Grose.

Mr. Gary Lawrence Grose

March 6, 1959 - June 15, 2024