Neil Fred Griffus

Neil Fred Griffus

August 3, 1945 – April 17, 2025

Neil Fred Griffus, Age 79, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, April 17, 2025. Born in Michigan to Lela and Lyle Griffus, Neil lived a life defined by dedication to his family, country, and career.

A proud Michigan native, Neil graduated from Owosso High School in 1963 before honorably serving his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Upon returning home, Neil built a distinguished 30-year career at General Motors, beginning in the skilled trades as a welder repairman before advancing to become superintendent of mechanical engineering at the Flint Truck and Bus division. His professional  journey was completed by his academic achievements, earning his degree from the University of Michigan-Flint in 1982

On June 24, 1972, Neil married the love of his life, JoAnne, in Flint, Michigan. Their remarkable union of 52 years was blessed with two children, Jon and Kate, and later enriched by three beloved grandchildren: Samuel, Caleb, and Cassidy.

Family stood at the center of Neil’s world. His devotion to his grandchildren led him and JoAnne to relocate to Arizona in 2004, beginning a cherished new chapter of his life. An avid University of Michigan football fan, Neil never missed watching a game, proudly sporting his maize and blue. He frequently returned to his home state to reconnect with family and friends, and found particular joy in sail boating on Michigan’s lakes and during visits to Traverse City and Seattle.

Neil was preceded in death by his father and mother, Lela and Lyle Griffus; his brother Kenneth Griffus; and his sister Constance Griffus. He leaves behind his devoted wife, JoAnne; daughter Kate Griffus and son-in-law Steve; son Jon Griffus and daughter-in-law Susan Griffus; grandsons Samuel and Caleb Frazier; granddaughter Cassidy Fraizer; sister Linda Keenan; and many cherished nephews.

A memorial service celebrating Neil’s life will be held at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, with the date to be announced. Later this summer, Neil will be interred with military honors at the Great Lakes Veterans’ Cemetery in Holly Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to 

The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research

https://www.michaeljfox.org/give-tribute

Parkinson’s Foundation

https://secure3.convio.net/prkorg/site/TR?fr_id=3526&pg=entry