Jean Grant

Jean Grant, 94, nee Gonring, passed away peacefully December 15, 2015.

She was born December 12, 1921 to Jacob and Mary (nee Weber) Gonring in West Bend, WI. Jean grew up on Big Cedar Lake at the family-owned Gonring Resort during the big band era. Her childhood was filled with adventures on and around the lake by day--at night, the resort came to life with dancing and music from visiting luminaries like Tommy Dorsey, Gene Krupa, Benny Goodman, Lawrence Welk, and a young singer named Frank Sinatra. Her exciting youth paved the way for a life that was anything but ordinary. She went to the beat of her own drum. Jean often chose the least conventional path. After graduating from St. Mary’s Academy in Milwaukee, she married Maurice E. Grant; they later settled in Racine where Maury co-founded Unico, Inc.

Jean was a master bridge player and champion golfer. She was passionate about music and the performing arts. She believed strongly in supporting and creating community theater for all ages. In her later years she became an avid birder. She received a state grant to create a Certified Habitat for Migratory Birds on her property. She and Maury spent many weekends planting over a thousand five-inch sapling trees and plants--with Maury saying under his breath "this is for the birds." It's possible he would have rather been golfing.

Jean is most remembered for her gracious hospitality. Her home was always comfortable with a guarantee of stimulating conversation and delicious food. She could make a mean martini on demand.

She was preceded in death by her husband Maurice Grant (deceased 1985) and her son David Grant, (deceased 2013). She is survived by her son, Keith Grant (Celeste); daughter Maribeth Grant Thompson (Douglas); sister Alice Lass; numerous grandchildren, and a multitude of great-grandchildren. Jean’s family wishes to thank Lakeshore Manor nursing home for the loving and kind care she received at the end of her life. Following a private service at Maresh-Meredith & Acklam Funeral Home, she was laid to rest on December 23rd at Holy Cross Cemetery Hwy 32.