Emil G. Gravelle, Jr.

Emil G. Gravelle Jr., known to his friends and family as “J.R.” went to heaven to be with Jesus, on December 30, 2021. He was born at home in Grand Rapids, Minnesota to Emil and Irene Gravelle on December 3, 1945, and he died at Bay Park Hospital in Oregon, Ohio. While J.R. dropped out of school in the 8th grade, he was highly intelligent became a flooring installer and auto mechanic operating his own businesses for many years. J.R. married the love of his life, Deanna Schjenken on January 23, 1968. J.R. loved working and fixing vehicles. J.R. enjoyed designing, building, and racing cars with his brother Ron and his son George in Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan on both dirt and asphalt racetracks. J.R. is survived by his wife Deanna; his son Emil “George” (Casey) Gravelle III; 6 grandchildren Alice, Genevieve, Emil IV, Ellenah, Agnethe, and Leah; brothers and sisters Donna (Ray) Rivera Dale (Kim) Gravelle, Terry (Jen) Gravelle, and Tammy (Johnny) Gravelle. J.R. had many special family & friends through the years. J.R. is preceded in death by his parents Emil & Irene Gravelle; brothers and sisters Ron, Della, Darlene, and Renee; and his grandson Henry. At J.R.’s request, he is being cremated and there will be no visitation. A Celebration of Life will occur: January 15, 2021 from 12pm to 6pm at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 4615 W. Albain Rd., Monroe, MI 48161. To send flowers or cards to Emil “J.R.” George Gravelle Jr.’s family, please send them care of Deanna Gravelle, 3550 Nearing Ave., Toledo, Ohio 43608.