Roger W. Gronblom, 80, of Plymouth, formerly of Wareham, a Navy veteran of the USS Ault during the Vietnam War, died unexpectedly Saturday, June 20 at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth.
Born in Plymouth to the late Anselm and Dorothy L. (Sterry) Gronblom, he graduated from Wareham High School in 1964, where he participated in track and cross country and was also a member of the school choir. Following graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served for four years aboard the USS Ault (DD-698) in the Vietnam theater from 1964 to 1968. After his Navy service, he continued his military commitment with the Massachusetts Air National Guard at Otis Air Force Base.
Following his military service, he worked for Bessie Walkover Shoes and Factory Shoe Outlet. He later worked as a security officer at Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station in Plymouth until his retirement.
He was an avid runner, and enjoyed walking and bicycling along the Cape Cod Canal. He was also a devoted sports fan who faithfully followed the Boston Red Sox, New England Patriots, and college football.
Survivors include his wife, Thalia (MacKenzie) Gronblom of Plymouth; his children, Lisa Chisholm and her husband John of Plymouth, Steven Gronblom and his wife Tammie of Wareham, and Adam Gronblom of Plymouth; his siblings, Jackie Elliot of VA, Marie Gronblom of NC and Frank Gronblom of NH; his grandchildren, John and James Chisholm, MacKenzie Gronblom and Kyleigh Gronblom. He was preceded in death by his grandson, William Gaige Gronblom.
Visitation will be 10 to 11 a.m. Monday, June 29 at Chapman Funerals & Cremations – Wareham, 2599 Cranberry Hwy. (Rt. 28). A funeral service will follow. Interment will be private.
For directions or to leave a message of condolence visit: www.chapmanfuneral.com.