Roger

Grimsley

In Loving Memory of Roger Allen Grimsley

Roger Allen Grimsley was born June 13, 1940, in Thompson, Iowa, to Eldene Folkedal and Ervin "Bud" Grimsley, and passed away December 24, 2025. He lived a life defined  by purpose, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to the community he loved. In  1947, his family moved to Hollister, the place that would become the heart of his story and the home he helped shape for more than seven decades. Roger attended Hollister elementary schools, graduated from Hollister High School, and earned his Associate of Arts Degree from San Benito Junior College. A gifted athlete, he excelled in basketball at Hollister High and later brought his talent to the courts of San José State University, where he completed his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering.

Roger was immensely proud of his Norwegian heritage, often reminding his children that he was "100% Norwegian," a reflection of the strong roots and values he carried throughout his life.

On June 13, 1971, Roger married Toni Martin, beginning a partnership filled with love, adventure, and shared devotion to family and community. Together they raised two children, Mark (wife Jen) and Mashell (husband Bryan), who were the center of Roger's world. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Zachary and Tyler Grimsley, and Bradley Baxter, each of whom brought him immense joy. Roger is also survived by his brothers, James Grimsley of Sykesville, Maryland, and David Grimsley of Hollister, California. As well as by the Del Curto boys, Darin, Derek, and Andre who were like sons and held a special place in his heart. He was preceded in death by his parents Eldene and Ervin "Bud" Grimsley and his brother Marvin Grimsley. Roger's professional life was a testament to his belief in hard work, integrity, and service. He began his public service career in 1963 as an Engineer for the Town of Los Gatos. After marrying Toni, he returned to Hollister, their hometown that would become his lifelong professional home, where he served as City Manager for a decade. He later founded his own engineering company, Grimsley & Associates, leading it until 2007. Retirement, however, never suited Roger. He returned to public service as City Manager of San Juan Bautista from 2011 to 2017, and eventually supported the San Benito County Planning and Building Department in a retiree capacity until 2020. Throughout his career, he mentored countless individuals, offering guidance not only in work but in life. Roger also served proudly in the California National Guard, reflecting his deep sense of duty to his country.

Roger loved San Benito County with his whole heart. His involvement in local organizations was both broad and meaningful. Over the years, he was a member of:

 Hollister Elks Lodge
 Hollister IOOF Mound Lodge
 San Benito County Saddle Horse Association
 Hollister Chamber of Commerce
 Founding member of the Hollister Downtown Association
 Hollister School District Board
 San Benito County Intergovernmental Committee

His fingerprints can be found across the community in its institutions, its people, and its  spirit. Roger lived life in motion. He loved riding dirt bikes in Clear Creek, traveling the world  on motorcycle adventures, cheering on the Boston Celtics, and tackling projects of  every kind, often saying, "You always need to have a project." Work was never a burden to him; it was a joy. He lived by the belief "If you do what you
love, you never work a day in your life." And he embodied that philosophy every single  day.

A legendary early riser, Roger was always the first one awake and the last one to call it  a night. He often teased his children that they were "sleeping their lives away"  and           missing the best part of the day, a line that now brings smiles through the tears. Roger's life was rich with purpose, connection, and love. He leaves behind a legacy of service, mentorship, and community-building that will continue to shape San Benito County for generations. His family, friends, and all who knew him will remember his steady presence, his humor, his work ethic, and the way he made people feel valued.

A Celebration of Life will be held February 6, 2026 at 11:30am at the Hollister Elks Lodge. Casual dress in one of Roger's favorite colors: red, white, and blue.