Romanza K. Griffin
Romanza K. Griffin, born on February 23, 1941, passed away on December 23, 2022; beloved wife of David J. Griffin, whom she married on February 11, 1961; loving daughter of the late Arthur & the late Marjorie Van Pelt; dear sister of Rosanne Surrett of King Mountain, NC, John Van Pelt of Cedar Falls, IA, and Steven Van Pelt of Chicago, IL. Romanza was born in Ogden, IA, and moved to Cedar Rapids, IA in 1958 with her family. Eventually, she and David, originally of Cedar Rapids, IA, settled in Willow Springs, IL.
Romanza had a fruitful career with the Electro-Motive Division of General Motors; she retired on January 1, 1993. Her hobbies included both oil and watercolor painting, gardening, and traveling. She was able to visit 46 states, Canada, Mexico, Peru, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, London, and went on many cruises as well. While at home, Romanza was very active in her local church. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
A visitation will take place from 11 a.m. until the time of the Memorial Service, 12 p.m. on Saturday, January 28, 2023 at LaGrange Bible Church, 850 7th Ave., LaGrange, IL 60525.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Romanza’s name to LaGrange Bible Church (https://lagrangebible.church/give/) are appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to Hallowell & James Funeral Home, Countryside. Information: (708) 352-6500
How blessed to know Romanza is rejoicing in heaven with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We met Romanza at Westchester Bible Church over forty years ago, and so enjoyed the fellowship we had together. She had a servant’s heart in all she did. She will be truly missed.
My husband, Ray and I knew and enjoyed the friendship of Dave and Romanza since the mid-60’s, I believe, from Brookfield Baptist Church. We four eventually lived In the same apartment complex in Willow Springs, Illinois, for a few years. Ray and I built a house not too far from Dave & Romanza’s home there, then we moved to Colorado and still loved seeing them when we went back to Illinois, visited them in North Carolina, and when they came to Colorado on trips. I will not forget those sweet times. Now Ray and Romanza are sitting at the feet of our Jesus together. Praise God!
Rest In Peace Romamza. You have arrived home with our Heavenly Father. I bet by now you and Angie are painting to your hearts delight.
Romanza worked for me when I was the Central Regional Service Manager from 1975 until 1983 at the Electro-Motive Oakbrook Regional Office. She was one of the best secretaries that I ever met or worked with at EMD. She had a great personality and was always willing to do whatever needed to be done. She never corrected a letter that needed to be changed. She always re typed it and usually very quickly. She also endured my tape dictations for some years when we used that system. She will be missed. I extend my sympathies to Dave and family.
Romanza was such a sweet dear lady we were privileged to know at Brookfield Baptist Church in the 60’s and 70’s. I have many fond memories of working with her on various craft projects she completed so neatly and beautifully. It was always a joy to serve on committees with her and to attend church activities with her and Dave. She was always kind and had a sweet Christian testimony. She loved and served her husband faithfully. We enjoyed her and Dave’s friendship and fellowship. They were a fun couple, as Dave has quite a sense of humor with his wife smiling through the comments and giving a cute response. She will be missed greatly, but is rejoicing now in Jesus’ presence, Looking forward to seeing you again soon, Romanza!