Obituary

Charlotte “Jean” Groon

8/11/1939 – 4/22/2021

Charlotte “Jean” Groon, age 81, passed away peacefully in her Mission Viejo home on Thursday, April 22, 2021. Jean was born in Winter Park, FL and was one of 6 children. After meeting and marrying her husband, Jean moved to Southern California in 1961, where she resided in Dana Point until moving her family to Mission Viejo in 1983. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ed Groon, who passed in September of 1991. She is survived by her 2 sons Lee Groon of Aliso Viejo, CA and David Groon of Laguna Hills, CA, Lee’s wife & Jean’s daughter-in-law Debi Groon, and two grandchildren Kaelin & Kylee Groon.

Jean leaves behind a community of family & friends near and far. She took so much pride in her kids, grandkids and nieces and nephews, covering her home in photographs” which all had a story” that she would happily share with anyone who came to visit. She spent 23 years working for the California Department of Motor Vehicles as a staff member/trainer and retired at age 61. Outside of work and beyond retirement, Jean enjoyed spending quality time with her two grandkids, taking them on frequent trips to Disneyland and other fun outings like concerts, plays and tea parties. Jean was a huge fan of all things Disney, visiting all three locations in Anaheim, Florida and Paris! She found enjoyment in doll making & collecting, buying the newest Dooney & Bourke accessories and supporting her grandkids with their sports, hockey and dance. And, if ever there was a woman who loved to shop, it was Jean!

Jean was a gracious giver; of time, resources & love. Her generous heart was her best quality, always taking care of the people around her, and at times to a fault. She had the most infectious laugh and loved all the goofy things her grandkids would do to hear it.

In her 81 years of life, Jean was faced with an insurmountable amount of pain and suffering” losing her mother at the young age of 14, losing her husband after a short 32 years together, beating the beast of chemo after a breast cancer diagnosis, having multiple back procedures and open-heart surgery– yet she persevered, often finding every last ounce of strength to continue on. If we could take one thing from the example of her life, it would be to lean in to the power of resiliency” not only for yourself but for your family. Jean would have done anything to see the people around her smile, even when she was the one who needed that same love & care the most.

In her last days and weeks earthside, Jean enjoyed 3 months of quality time with her oldest son, Lee, who slept at her house each and every night. They had an incredibly special bond that comforted her until her last day, reminiscing on life’s highs and lows together. Lee’s wife Debi helped to walk her home in her final hours, praying and listening to her list of life’s many blessings over the years– many of which were the friends and family whom she adored.

Please, join us in remembering Jean’s best days by sharing a photo or fond memory of her below. On behalf of our family, we would like to thank all those who have sent their condolences and offered the gift of flowers and meals as we navigate the complicated stages of grief.

Due to our respect for keeping our communities safe during COVID-19, we will wait until August 2021, around Jean’s birthday, to host a “Celebration of Life”. Please reach out to kylee.groon@gmail.com should you like to request an invite.