Saturday, May 21, 2016
We've just received word of the passing of Lake Erie State Park Supt. Peter L. Groff, who served in that capacity for some 30 years until his 1995 retirement. Had attempted a surprise visit with Pete & Anne on Oct. 16, 2014, but missed them, as Anne later explained, due to one of Pete's doctor appointments. I, Bill Marks, first met Pete in 1970 when I was a senior at Fredonia State, volunteering along with fellow classmates to host "Scarborough Fair" an event sponsored for local grade school students. As park superintendent Pete dazzled the kids with rope tricks, lassoing skills, leading pony rides, distributing lunch & prizes ,and thus ensuring each child had a meaningful and fun day. I would then work for him as a gate attendant for some two years while attending college. I later went on to teach & coach at Brocton Central, and have remained in touch with the Groffs since 1970.. Anne was an excellent writer for the Westfield newspaper at the time and along with Mr. Al Hutchison, a BCS teacher who wrote for the Brocton Beacon, submitted top notch stories for publication... Pete was so well-liked by the campers, daily visitors, and fellow employees. My parents, upon visiting from Utica, became especially fond of Pete & Anne. We shall miss his warmth, wisdom & benevolent spirit... Be assured of our best thoughts for Anne, family & friends at this time... With love & respect...Bill & Melinda Marks Whittier, California
