Bartlett Grimes
Bartlett Torrey Grimes was born in Detroit, Michigan, on Jan. 19, 1930, and died in Little River, California, on Dec. 29, 2019, just weeks short of his 90th birthday. He was the fourth child of Edwin Loomis Grimes and Bernice Mae Torrey Grimes.
Bart spent a happy childhood in Ann Arbor, Michigan, where he excelled in school and all sports. He graduated from University of Michigan with honors, earning both bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
His first job after graduation was with the U.S. Army during the Korean War. During this time, he married Geraldine Burke, his bride of almost 67 years. They were transferred to the Presidio in San Francisco for his final tour of duty. This experience made them life-long Californians.
Bart began his career in San Francisco at Bank of California and eventually retired from Fireman’s Fund Insurance as senior vice president and treasurer.
Even during his busy career, Bart always found community service to be an important part of his life. He was the chair of PERS, Public Employees Retirement System, for 10 years. Bart also chaired the San Francisco Science Fair. He was featured in "Outstanding Young Men in America." Later, after having three children, Bart was involved in all aspects of their lives. Coaching sport teams, leading Boy Scouts and serving on every school board in some capacity.
Bart treasured his friendships throughout his life. He was an active member in The Bohemian Club, Pacific Union Club, Mill Valley Tennis Club and Lagunitas Country Club. Bart not only enjoyed the camaraderie of these organizations, he also served on various committees to support them.
After many years in Marin County Bart and Gerry retired to the village of Mendocino 27 years ago. Bart was very happy living in Mendocino, a small active community where he felt he could make a contribution. Bart chaired the Mendocino Historical Review Board for 11 years. He also was a member of Rotary Club and served on the board of the Mendocino Art Center. Bart was a founding board member of Habitat for Humanity on the coast.
At age 70, Bart’s competitive spirit enabled him to get his real estate license. Afterwards, he became an associate at Century 21 in Mendocino.
That same competitive spirit made Bart an excellent life-long poker, bridge and tennis player.
Bart is survived by his wife, Geraldine; their sons, Barlett Torrey Grimes Jr. (Codri) and Kelly Burke Grimes (Sarah); their daughter, Nancy Grimes McIntosh; and two grandchildren, Habibie Winter and Madison Emma Grimes.
At his request, the Grimes family had a private service for Bart at home in Little River.
The family would like to express their utmost gratitude to so many volunteers and organizations in our community. They include Albion-Little River Fire Department, the ambulance service, Mendocino Coast District Hospital, Mendocino Coast Hospice, Home Health, Andersson Caregivers and the first responders at The Woods. These angels allowed Gerry to care for Bart at home.
Donations in Bart’s memory to any of the above organizations would be greatly appreciated.
We only get one shot at life and Bart Grimes made the most of his. Hi Ho!