Donald Grinnell

Donald Allen Grinnell, known lovingly to all as “Ducky,” passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 16, 2025, after a life dedicated to family, community and hard work. He was 86 years old.

Born on February 11, 1939, Ducky was the son of the late Roy and Audry (Britton) Grinnell. He attended Conneaut Lake High School before serving his country in the National Guard until 1962. He was also a proud member of the American Legion Post #111.

On July 2, 1960, Ducky married his beloved school sweetheart, Barbara Buck. They shared a lifetime of love, laughter and joy raising their family until she preceded him in death on June 11, 2019. Their partnership was the cornerstone of their family and Ducky’s greatest joy.

He was a dedicated worker until retirement with PPG with a remarkable 33-year career. He also gave decades of service to Vernon Central Hose Company where he was the bar manager for many years and a lifetime member; also volunteering as a firefighter. He found spiritual faith as a member of Faith Geneva Church in Geneva, Pa.

Ducky’s greatest pleasures were simple. Hard work and then family time. He enjoyed walking, gym activities, sports with his kids and going to auctions with his beloved Barb.

In his later years, Ducky maintained some daily rituals. Going to the American Legion Post #111 for lunch or visiting the County Line Café. Heartfelt thanks to both establishments for great service and care to Ducky,

He survives with his devoted children: Christine Vann and her husband, Richard; Jeffrey Grinnell and his partner, Shannon and Donald Grinnell II and his wife, Sandra. He also leaves behind three cherished grandchildren: Brittany Grinnell, Chase Grinnell, Chayton Grinnell and his great grandson, Julian.

Ducky is preceded in death by his wife Barbara, his parents Roy and Audry and seven siblings: Betty Grinnell, Doris Grinnell, Mary Green Willard, Shirley Cole Bilk, Barbara Grinnell, June Hays and William Grinnell.

Per Ducky’s final wishes, there will be no public services. A beautiful private send off to spread his ashes in the Geneva Swap where he grew up was what he wanted.

In lieu of flowers, etc. the family requests memorial donations be made in Ducky’s honor to the Oncology Benevolent Fund, MMC Foundation, Meadville, Pa.

Please sign Ducky’s online guestbook at www.hatheway-tedesco.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Dickson Funeral Home and Crematory, 130 N. 2nd St. Conneaut Lake, PA 16316.