William Russell Grapes (Bill), 72 of Grafton, Ohio passed away peacefully on July 20, 2025 at home surrounded by his family.

Bill was born in Elyria, Ohio on August 5, 1952 to Robert and Betty Grapes. He lived in Elyria for most of his life, graduating from Elyria High School in 1970, and then proudly served in the US Navy immediately after graduation. After an honorable discharge from the Navy, Bill attended LCCC and received his Nursing Degree. This led to a lifetime of serving in the medical community.

Bill was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Bill and Cheryl were married on July 2, 1977. Together they enjoyed traveling, fishing, playing cards, and just spending time with their family. Bill enjoyed many trips with his family throughout the country. On these trips Bill loved to take his family to museums, amusement parks, and anywhere historical. He loved reading and trivia and because of these hobbies, he gained the nickname "Bill-o-pedia" because he "knew everything". In his later years, he really enjoyed visiting family in South Carolina and traveling to its surrounding areas.

Bill was a loving father to his girls. He was always there to answer questions, give advice, and teach them lifelong skills. He never hesitated to answer the phone and let the girls know the best way to handle whatever situation they were in. He was a straight shooter.

In addition to being a loving father, Bill was an exceptional grandfather. Whether he was attending sporting events for his grandsons or watching his granddaughter dance and play dress up, Bill was there with a smile! He enjoyed teaching them all new skills and playing with them. He was always down for a road trip with them and had stories and jokes to fill up their time together. If they "needed something" from pocket knives to princess tents, then all they had to do was ask Grampy.

Bill is survived by his wife Cheryl; daughters, Stacy Collins (Wayne) and Betsy Wallace (Terence); grandchildren, Jordan Collins, Nathan Collins and Olivia Wallace. In addition to his immediate family, he's survived by his twin sister, Lois Murray (Deck), and younger sisters, Sue Schneider (Ken) and Patti Tarney (Scott) and their families.

Funeral service will be from 11 a.m. – 12 noon on Saturday, August 9, 2025 at the Grafton United Methodist Church 973 Mechanic Street. Pastor Robert Spaulding will officiate. A private burial with full military honors will take place at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill's name can be made to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.laubenthalmercado.com. Arrangements entrusted to Laubenthal Mercado Funeral Home in Elyria.