Joseph Henry Griggs

October 17, 1942 - March 20, 2022

Joseph Henry Griggs, 79, died at home with the loving care of his wife, Martha, on March 20, 2022, after a long journey with metastatic prostate cancer. Joe was born October 17, 1942, in Detroit, Michigan to the late Henry Glyglewicz and Helen (Pawlowski) Gryglewicz, who later changed their last name to Griggs. Joe remained proud of his Polish heritage and benefitted from being raised in a close-knit Polish family. He graduated from Rochester High School in 1960 where he played varsity football and baseball, varsity band, attended Boys State, and first chair trumpet at an Interlochen Music Camp summer program. Joe received his Bachelor of Science degree from Ferris State College and Master of Science from Central Michigan University where he also served as a graduate assistant in biology. While teaching biology at Wisconsin State University-Whitewater, Joe received a National Science Foundation Grant to study radiation biophysics at the University of Kansas, Lawrence KS. Soon after moving to Traverse City In 1976, Joe started his career as a State Farm Insurance agent, serving the needs of many wonderful, longtime clients. After retirement, he enjoyed substitute teaching, known as "Mr. G" throughout TCAPS and St. Francis schools. Joe was proud of his ability to teach several subjects and did so in every grade level, especially pleased when assigned to the class of a grandchild. Throughout his life, Joe valued physical activity: running, bicycling, hiking, cross country skiing, and golfing. Joe would go anywhere to follow his grandchildren's sports. He was an avid reader, learning more about human biology, astronomy, health and fitness, and the history and happenings of our great country. Joe leaves much love and wonderful memories to his beloved wife of 53 years, Martha; children Lisa Helfrich and husband, Wayne, Paul Griggs and wife, Karen; grandchildren Ella Griggs and Aiden Griggs; brother Arthur Griggs and wife Joanne; sister-in-law Barbara Archer and husband Glen; and several cousins and special friends. Many thanks to each for their love and support. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts to the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy or the Dennos Museum would be appreciated. A celebration of Joe's life will be held from 2-4 pm on Saturday, March 26, 2022 at The Botanic Gardens, 1490 Red Dr, Traverse City MI 49684 You've never left before -without me knowing where. With a kiss goodbye, you packed'so lightly -only taking my endearing love. I'm left to seek answers only time will tell.