John J Gronau, Jr.

John J Gronau Jr, 83 passed away on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at Wheat State Manor in Whitewater, Kansas. He was born on August 6, 1942, in Newton, Kansas to John J Gronau Sr. and Bernadine (Waner) Gronau. He had one brother, Bernard. 

He attended Whitewater High School and graduated in the class of 1961. He was employed as a grain farmer all of his life. He loved auctions and working for the auctioneers. He is described as an “auction junkie” and often times an auctioneer would say, “here John, you can have this for a dollar!" And of course, John would take up the offer.  John also loved country dancing.  When he was there no one danced without a partner.

John married Sharon Ellen Jones in Halstead, Kansas in 1966. They were married until 1992.

John resided the last 6 plus years at Wheat State Manor, where he was loved by staff and he enjoyed joking with them.

Those who proceeded him in death are his parents; and a sibling Bernard Gronau.

Survivors include son, Tim (Traci) Gronau of Winfield, Kansas; daughter, Deanna (Jesse) Gronau of Sherman Oaks, California; grandchildren Courtney (John) Moser, Kirstie (Jarret) Cates; and three great grandchildren, Hudson, Briggston, and Holton.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, May 27 from 1 to 2 pm with family present and a service with rosary and memorial to be held at 2 pm both at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, at 106 E. 8th St. in Newton, Kansas. Inurnment will follow in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Newton as well.