Grizsy Birkhead

Grizsy Birkhead, 75, of Elkhart, IN passed away peacefully at his home on January 17, 2023.

He was born on February 22, 1947 in Elkhart to the late Mary Birkhead and Norris Jackson.  At a young age, Grizsy was baptized at Canaan Baptist Church.  He graduated from Elkhart High School.

Grizsy served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War where he was awarded the Purple Heart.  He enjoyed learning and after his military service,  Grizsy attended Boston University where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.  He also pursued various certification programs at the University of Notre Dame, Indiana University South Bend and Harvard University.  He enjoyed spending special occasions with his family, the outdoors and walking around the city.  He was a long time resident of Elkhart, returning after a brief period in Boston and California.  Grizsy was loved by those who knew him and will be tremendously missed.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sisters, Marguerite Jackson and Melona Birkhead and an uncle, Joseph Birkhead.  He leaves to cherish his memory, his daughter, Hope (Ralph) Dowe; a son, Simeon Gary; granddaughter, Dinah Dowe; sisters Winona Walker, Daphne Palmer, Janet Birkhead, Brenda Jackson, Bernadette Jackson, Reyna Jackson and a brother, Travis “Tubby” Jackson.  Also surviving are a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

A family graveside service will be held at Prairie Street Cemetery on Monday, February 13, 2023, where military honors will be rendered.  Hartzler-Gutermuth-Inman Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements.

Memorial contributions in memory of Grizsy may be made to the Indiana Disabled American Veterans P.O. Box 508 Greenwood, IN 46142.

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