Gary Lee Grimshaw

Gary Lee Grimshaw, 87, originally of Portsmouth, OH, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at Sarasota Memorial Hospital Hospice in Venice, FL surrounded by family. He was born on March 15, 1939, in Portsmouth, OH, to the late Vaughn Grimshaw and Margaret “Peg” (Jordan) Grimshaw.

Gary was a lover of art and design, automobiles, Formula 1, Indy car racing, movies and travel. He would jump at the chance to see a great film or the latest race, to spend time with family or travel to a new destination. He had a passion for life, and told his children: “You can do whatever you set your mind to and be whatever you want to be!”. Some of his last words were: “Enjoy your life!”. Gary was always there to support his family, and this will be remembered and cherished forever.

He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Design from the School of Art, Architecture and Design at the University of Cincinnati where he was a member of Alpha Tau Omega fraternity. After graduating, Gary entered the United States Air Force in 1962 as a Weapons Controller. He served in the Vietnam War and continued his honorable military service as an officer for 20 years in the Ohio Air National Guard. His military career included 5 bases in the US and 5 years in Germany with Headquarters United States Air Forces Europe (USAFE). While in the service he earned a Master of Science degree in Systems Management from the University of Southern California. He completed his service at the rank of Major.

After the Air Force years, he and his wife returned to their hometown of Portsmouth, Ohio, to raise their children and became owners of the Portsmouth Cement & Lime serving the Portsmouth community for 40 years. Gary was a longtime member of Rotary, the board of Goodwill and Sister Cities, the American Legion, Elks, and the Methodist church. Serving the community was important to him.

Gary is survived by his devoted wife of 62 years, Linda K. (Hicks) Grimshaw. He is also survived by his three children and their families, Bruce P. Grimshaw of Los Angeles, CA, Scott E. Grimshaw of Columbus, OH, and Cindy R. (Grimshaw) Kelly of Sarasota, FL. He is also survived by his brother Lynn Grimshaw of Wheelersburg, OH, and his sister Gail VanKirk of Portsmouth, OH, and their families. He was blessed to have five grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Gary’s family will be planning a celebration of life to be held at a date later this year. Memorial gifts or contributions may be made to: --The Rotary Foundation, 14280 Collections Center Drive, Chicago, IL 60693 USA