Michael "Mick" R. Grotefend
Died: Feb 21, 2017
Mick was formerly employed as a Field Engineer for Fujitsu Transaction Solutions, NJ for many years. He loved animals and working out at Fit Happens in Hackettstown, NJ. He owned a US Patent for Safety Belt Apparatus for use in Karate. Michael was one of the founders of the US Karate Association and was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Association. Mick was a legend among the Karate Community.
He is survived devoted parents, Richard Paul and Elizabeth Amelia (Accorsi) Grotefend, his beloved companion, Cynthia Altman, his cherished son, William “Bill” Grotefend and companion Nicole, his loving brother, Charles Grotefend and wife Tracy and his Lifetime Karate Instructor, Sensi Frank Caliguri.
Cremation was private.
Condolences:
LEROY SCHROCK
#13
May 31st, 2017 8:06 pm
Just learned of Mick's passing. We had some great times at Cal State. So sorry his life ended so young and that we drifted apart. He was a good friend. I'm glad to know he had a son and his legacy carries on.
Kim Cushman
#12
March 5th, 2017 6:22 pm
my heart aches for Mickey's family. I know how very much he loved his son, Im so very sorry to hear this . All his many accomplishments is a testament to how much he loved and lived life. He was amazing to watch whether it was one of his fights or watching how passionate he was when the young men he mentored was on the ring. I enjoyed attending tournaments with him just for that reason. I will never forget your beautiful smile Mickey and I will cherish the many years of memories forever. You are truly the legend you set out to be.
Chris Chamberlain
#11
March 2nd, 2017 2:25 pm
My heartfelt condolences to the Grotefend family and Cindy. Wishing all you of you strength and peace. Mick was such a wonderful friend since our first year of college in 1980. So many great times throughout the years. It is a painful loss and my life will never be the same, but at least I have the happy memories throughout all those years and I hope that is the same for you also. Mick will be missed and never forgotten! Rest in peace old buddy!
Donald J. Reola
#10
February 27th, 2017 4:31 pm
I knew a lot of tough guys in my life but YOU, MICK, where the absolute toughest person I have ever known. You were my 2nd best friend after Dave Rebold, and I will never ever forget you. I use your toughness and street smarts everyday on the streets of Pittsburgh as a veteran Officer. I miss you, Sincerely, Donald J. Reola.
John Kovel
#9
February 26th, 2017 2:15 am
My sympathies to Mickey family. Growing up in Springdale, he was always a really sweet kid used to take him riding on my Suzuki trail bike every so often
Sue Greaves Hineman
#8
February 24th, 2017 6:48 pm
Mickey,
So young to be gone already! I will remember forever going to and keeping score at your matches.
R.I.P my friend till we all meet again!
Thomas W Hendron
#7
February 24th, 2017 6:12 pm
RIP my Warrior Brother it was a great fight we had many many years ago in Dulth Minn! Till we meet again!! USSON PINE
Sandi Jones
#6
February 24th, 2017 5:27 pm
I wish to extend my most sincere condolences to the Grotefend family. Your son, brother, father and love was a superhero to many and a sweet sweet soul to many more. I was very sad to hear of his passing. We were old school mates. I pray for peace and comfort for you at this difficult time and beyond. God bless.
Matthew Nolen
#5
February 24th, 2017 4:43 pm
Although our time was very short i will miss you and my prayers and thoughts
Go with your family . May god bless you and your family
Hugh Haggerty
#4
February 24th, 2017 10:39 am
Thank you Mickey for making the world a better place for everyone who knew you. You and your Family can be sure that the people from your Hometown of Springdale are enormously proud of you and your accomplishments both in and out of the ring. We will see you on the other side old Friend.
Susan Hutzler Venatta
#3
February 24th, 2017 8:32 am
To the Grotefend family ~ please accept my deepest sympathy on the loss of Mickey. May God grant you His comfort and peace. Thinking of you all with fond memories of growing up on Elwyn Avenue.
Rich Dehus
#2
February 24th, 2017 8:23 am
Condolences to Mack's family. I am very fortunate to have known you through the years. Always great respect for you. And will truly be missed be all
Beth Lydic
#1
February 24th, 2017 7:24 am
My heart was so heavy when I heard the news of your passing. You were not just a school mate but a most wonderful man.. You talked to me and helped me with words of encouragement during a very low time in my life and I am forever grateful and honored to have had you as a friends... Fly high with the Angles Mick, for some day, we will meet again... My deepest sympathies to his family and all his friends, he touched so many lives with his strength and compassion..
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