Tony Grimes

Tony Grimes passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 27, 2012 at his home in the presence of his family. He died of End Stage Renal Disease, being on dialysis for 2 ½ years.

At Tony’s request no services will take place. He was able to see or speak with his children before his death and that was most important to him.

Born in Goodwin, Arkansas, Tony spent his youth in California. He attended San Fernando High School, graduating in 1954. As a standout football player, Tony led San Fernando High School to an undefeated season, winning the Los Angeles City Championship. From that win, he was selected to play in the East-West Shrine game at the Los Angeles Coliseum. Tony continued his love of sports by becoming a volunteer football and baseball coach in Camarillo “Coach Grimes” was well liked, admired and made a difference in the lives of many young athletes. He continued coaching until moving to Bellingham in 1988.

Tony spent his career as a Los Angeles City Fireman. Again, he proved himself outstanding ,receiving several citations for lifesaving actions. One of his most rewarding moments happened after pulling a small boy from a swimming pool and giving him cpr. He was sure the boy was dead, but the mom was begging him to continue and he did for the mother’ sake until the ambulance arrived. A few weeks later the mother and boy showed up at the fire station with a cake and tearful thank yous. He was a proud member of the Los Angeles Mountain Patrol until it was disbanded and then became an adjutant for his chief and friend Leo Narjarian until his retirement. He continued in a construction career building homes in Camarillo and Bellingham.

He was a proud father and grandfather ,enjoying family water skiing trips, camping, boating and get togethers. He was an avid reader and loved a good game of cards, being one of the original members of the Sudden Valley Poker Club.

Tony had a generous heart and a willingness to help anyone in need.

Tony’s passing was preceded by his mother Josephine Hill, father Jeff Grimes and his brothers Jack Grimes and William Grimes. He is survived by his wife of 34 years Mary Grimes, children Jeff Grimes, Michel Grimes, Bill Grimes, Geoffrey Beckwith, Monica Beckwith Grimes, Nathan Beckwith and Andrew Beckwith; 12 grandchildren and one great granddaughter, siblings Sandy Jones of Blaine and Jerry Hill of Oklahoma

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Whatcom County Hospice Society or Whatcom Humane Society.