George Donald Groves

George Donald Groves, who celebrated his 98th birthday in January, passed away on March 16th, 2026 peacefully surrounded by the memories of a long and meaningful life.

Known to many as Donny Boy, Don moved to Cherokee from Kansas in 1945, where he soon met the love of his life, Glenda Mae Bahm. At the time, Glenda was 16 and Don was 17. Their young love quickly grew into a lifelong commitment, and the couple eloped on March 30th 1947, beginning a marriage built on devotion, resilience and partnership. You would often find them out on the dance floor creating precious memories that brought them countless happy memories.

In September 1950, Don began his career with the City of Cherokee. Through dedication and hard work, he worked his way up to become Water Supervisor. He later served the community as City Manager, a position he held for 38 years. During his many years of public service, Don helped guide the city through decades of growth and change before retiring in 1995.

After retirement, Don was always willing to lend a helping hand. For 26 years, he helped Glenda deliver flowers for Cole’s Flower Shop, something the two enjoyed doing together while serving the community they loved.

Don was deeply committed to his faith and church. He served as a deacon and trustee and was an active member of the worship committee, contributing countless hours to support the congregation and community.

Active throughout his life, Don was recognized as Cherokee’s Citizen of the Year in 1988-1989 and received an Outstanding Service Award for 20 years devoted to the Summer League. He was also a proud member of the Masonic Lodge for 76 years and remained an active member until the end.

Above all, Don cherished his family. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he spent countless hours supporting them in their activities, sharing his time, wisdom, and love. He celebrated their achievements and cheered the loudest for them. Known affectionately as “Pa” to so many, he welcomed everyone with warmth and kindness and loved them like his own.

Don was preceded in death by his devoted and loving wife, Glenda; his parents, Elmer and Jo Begley and Hazel and Lynn Mitchell, and his stepbrother, Bob Phillips.

He is survived by his daughter, Sherri Parr; two grandchildren, Abby Fleming (Aaron) of Shreveport, Louisiana, and Eric Parr (Tina) of Yukon, Oklahoma: four great-grandchildren, Collin (Ashley) of Conway, Arkansas, and Cale, Callen, and Camryn of Yukon, Oklahoma: three great-great grandchildren, Ella, Briggs, and Dawson and a half-brother, Jim (Peggy) Begley. He also leaves behind many dear friends whose lives were enriched by him.

Don will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his dedication to his faith and community, and the deep love he shared with Glenda and their family.

Funeral service for Donald will be on Friday, March 20, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. at the First Christian Church in Cherokee, Oklahoma. Burial will follow at Cherokee Municipal Cemetery. A viewing will be held Thursday, March 19, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Lanman Funeral Home in Cherokee, Oklahoma. Arrangements are by Lanman Funeral Home, Inc. of Cherokee. Facebook: Lanman Funeral Home Inc. Website: www.lanmanfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made out to the First Christian Church of Cherokee, OK.