Weldon "Junior" Griswold

Weldon Griswold “Junior” Age 78 of Essex, IL passed away on Sunday, December 8, 2024 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee, IL. Born on November 11, 1946 in Chillicothe, MO to Weldon and Martha (nee Hubbard) Griswold. He served in the United States Army from January 1966-January 1969 including a tour in Vietnam as an equipment operator in the jungle. On March 8, 1980 he married the love of his life Evelyn Rose Kirchner. From that moment he inherited a family that he regarded as his very own until his departure.Weldon is survived by his son, JIm “Jimbo” Lenzie of Essex; daughters, Deborah Lenzie-Hults of Limestone and Sylvia Marma of Custer Park, IL; seven grandchildren; seventeen great grandchildren; 6 great great great grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Preceding him in death were his wife , Evelyn Griswold (9-28-15); son Roy Lenzie; grandson, James Roy Lenzie; great granddaughter Zayla Mitsdarffer; parents Weldon and Martha Griswold, and one brother Herbert Griswold. Weldon was lovingly known by many as “Jr.” or “Griz”. Growing up in Missouri, as a young boy Jr. 's love for the outdoors began as he spent much of his spare time fishing and hunting. After serving his country he spent decades as a skilled welder working for the pipeline system. He settled into his forever home with Evie and continued to hunt and fish, along with riding motorcycles and snowmobiles. Jr. really enjoyed trips out west to prairie dog hunt and explore the open country. In his younger years this soldier was a force to be reckoned with. In all his years he was also one of the most generous, honest, respectful humans one would ever meet. If you were looking for someone to “tell you like it is with a smile”, this was the guy for the job. His job on earth was done, and by now he has met his parents to catch up while having some pie Martha baked. No doubt he has been fishing with Herbert. There was likely a hunting trip with Fuji. Jimmy was ready for him to target shoot with some of his reloads. He would have been waiting for Zayla to go ripping by too fast on the four wheeler with that ear to ear smile. Alas, no doubt he found Evie. They have both been waiting patiently for that dance, and if we all listen closely we can hear George Jones playing in the background. He would prefer we all hold up a glass and cheers to his life well lived instead of shedding tears. Cheers to you Griz. Cremation rites have been accorded. Private inurnment will be held at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood.

Weldon "Junior" Griswold

November 11, 1946 - December 8, 2024

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Weldon "Junior" Griswold

November 11, 1946 - December 8, 2024

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