August 16, 1936 - June 16, 2017

Roger C. Grunwald, retired United States Secret Service Special Agent in Charge, passed away at home surrounded by family on June 16, 2017. He is predeceased by the great love of his life, Marilyn, to whom he was married for 58 years. He is also predeceased by his second son, Gregory Scott Grunwald (Janie).

Roger was born in Fullerton, California, to Elizabeth and Charles Grunwald. After graduating from Fullerton High School in 1955, Roger joined the Navy, spending two years on the fleet oiler, USS Cacapon. Roger and Marilyn met and dated during their high school years, eventually marrying in June of 1958.

Roger was first and foremost a kind and gentle man. He valued family and his strong faith in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, humbly holding many highly regarded positions. He and Marilyn were very active in their church and visited many temples throughout their travels from Hawaii to Spain. They were both generous with their time, love, and support to any in need.

Roger's position within his 28-year Secret Service career allowed him the opportunity to work with former president Harry S. Truman at Mr. Truman's home in Missouri. Roger had a brief assignment with John F. Kennedy and went on to serve and protect many other presidents including Johnson, Nixon, Ford, Carter, Reagan, and George H. W. Bush. His final and most rewarding assignment before retiring from the Secret Service in 1988, was Head of Security at the Western White House for Ronald Reagan.

Roger leaves behind many family and friends who loved him dearly. He is survived by his younger brother Michael Grunwald (Jan), his eldest son Bradley C. Grunwald, his daughter, Julee M. Licon (Channing), seven wonderful grandchildren, and eight adorable great-grandchildren.

Roger requested that in lieu of flowers, an outing with loved ones in his memory would make him most happy!

A public memorial service was held in his honor on July 8, 2017 at the LDS Church in Solvang.

Information provided by Scotty