Arthur F. Grabowski

The rich and interesting 105-year life of Arthur Frank Grabowski of Grand Forks, ND, was drawn to a close on July 21, 2019. Born into a family of Polish immigrants in Milwaukee, WI, on October 4, 1913, his journey spanned over a century of American history in which he witnessed the development of the automobile, airplane, space travel, radio, television and computing, and in which he was an active participant. He played French horn and danced during the era of big band, learned to be frugal during the lean years of the Great Depression, owned and operated Grabowski Brothers picture framing shop after graduating from high school, served as a decorated U.S. Army soldier in WWII, then married his true love and raised a beautiful family of four children. After a career as a grain inspector for the USDA, he focused on singing in a barbershop quartet, designed and created an aesthetic home and garden, crafted fine wooden boxes and bowls, generously yet humbly patronized the arts and community, and spent many hours in the library eagerly learning about every subject of human knowledge. In his final project he devoted himself to the education and experiences of his grandson Talon.

He is survived by his son Steve (Kitten) Grabowski, Golden, CO; son Joe Grabowski, daughter Mary Stammen, and son Peter (Nina) Grabowski, all of Grand Forks, ND; grandchildren, sisters in law, nephews, nieces, dear cousin Mary Landowski, finest of caregivers Delores Peterson, and countless treasured friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Margaret, son-in-law Larry Stammen, father and mother Kazimierz and Martha Grabowski, brother and sister Henry and Emily, uncles, aunts, and cousins.

All are invited to attend the graveside service to be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 27, 2019, at Memorial Park Cemetery in Grand Forks, ND, and join in a gathering to follow at the North Dakota Museum of Art for conversation and refreshments. Memorial contributions may be made to the North Dakota Museum of Art, Greater Grand Forks Symphony Orchestra, North House Folk School, or organization of your choice.