Harold Grassel

In Loving Memory of Harold (Sonny) Grassel

Born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania | Passed Away September 2, 2025

Harold Grassel, lovingly known as Sonny — a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and loyal friend — passed away peacefully at the age of 82 at home surrounded by his family on September 2, 2025. Born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Sonny lived a life full of heart, humor, and hard-earned wisdom.

For 58 wonderful years, Sonny was married to his best friend and the love of his life, Betsy Grassel(née Sweitzer) —a marriage marked by laughter, resilience, and deep companionship. Together they created a family and built homes in places like Hoschton, Georgia, and Newport, Tennessee, and Lake Worth, Florida where Sonny’s wit and warmth made every house a home.

Sonny was the beloved father of three daughters: Lisa and her husband Jim Wilcox of Woodstock, Georgia; Cherie and her husband Kevin Moore of Grayson, Georgia; and Staci Grassel of Boynton Beach, Florida. 

He was also the loving grandfather of Casey Moore and his wife Alex of Tallahassee, Florida; Cierra Moore of Grayson, Georgia; and Chloe Wilcox of Woodstock, Georgia; and the joyful great-grandfather of Caiden Moore, of Tallahassee, Florida. His family was his world, and nothing gave him greater pride than watching them grow and thrive.

A man with a sparkle in his eye and an infectious laugh, Sonny enjoyed playing cards with his friends, working in his garden, scrapbooking, and country line dancing — a pastime he shared with many close friends. His sense of humor made him the center of attention wherever he went. He was the type of man who never fell on ice— ( thanks to his “special” boots — wink) —and the type who never quite listened to Betsy (yes Betsy). And yet, his stubbornness was part of what made him so dearly loved.

Survived by his sisters Shirley Rich and Nancy Stott of Valrico, Florida; brother Rick Grassel and his partner Karen of Boca Raton, Florida; and sister-in-law Linda Grassel of Ocala, Florida. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Sonny was preceded in death by parents, Harold Grassel and Anna Mae Grassel (née Enck), and his brother Don Grassel.

Sonny leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and countless stories that will be carried on through his family and friends. His presence was a steadying force, his humor a gift, and his heart always open to all who met him.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date and time.

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