Kenneth D. Groce

Kenneth Groce, 89, of New Salem, passed away on January 22nd, 2025.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at 1:00PM on February 7th 2025, at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery in Mandan, North Dakota.

Kenneth Dale Groce came into this world on June 24th, 1935, in Amidon, North Dakota to Ed and Lora, and what a ride it was! He married Bonnie Leppart in April of 1961, together they had two children, Jo Lynn and Michael who kept him on his toes from the start. Kenny proudly served his country in the U.S. Army and carried his identity as a veteran with deep pride throughout his life. A master electrician by trade, Kenny spent his life wiring buildings and sparking conversations – mostly about politics and horses.

Kenny loved his horses almost as much as he loved winning races with them. In his younger years he was a true outdoorsman, happiest with a fishing rod in hand or a hunting story that probably got bigger with each retelling. Later in life, Kenny and Bonnie went their separate ways, and he embraced bachelorhood with gusto, charming ladies and pouring his energy into his horses and his strong opinions about the world.

He welcomed his grandchildren and great-grandchildren with open arms, often slipping them sweet treats and life advice they didn’t ask for but will probably appreciate someday. Kenny was a cowboy through and through – tough as nails, stubborn as a mule, and passionate enough to argue about anything just to keep the room lively.

Kenny is survived by his daughter, Jo Lynn (Gordon) Ennen; daughter-in-law Denise Groce; grandchildren Paul Groce, Kenneth Groce, Mandi (Kenneth) Lindley, and Karen (Michael) Helm; numerous great-grandchildren; four sisters, two brothers, many cousins, nieces, and nephews; special friends Dave and Cindy, Dennis and Carol, Jody and Teresa, and countless others too numerous to name; and his beloved dog Gus.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Michael Groce, four sisters, four brothers, and his many cherished horses through the years.

Kenny lived harder and louder than most, and if you weren’t ready for his honesty, well, that was your problem. We’ll miss his quick wit, his big heart, and his ability to make every story feel larger than life. Ride on, Kenny – you’re probably already debating politics with St. Peter and racing horses in the clouds.