Darrell Grenz

Darrell "Wink" Alan Grenz, 69, passed away unexpectedly at his home on December 20, 2025.

Darrell was born in Mobridge, SD, and raised in Java, SD by his parents, Clifford and Bernice Grenz, along with his four siblings. The roots he planted there lasted a lifetime. He remained close with the friends he grew up alongside, gathering faithfully each year for the South Dakota pheasant opener, (only ever missing one) a tradition filled with laughter, stories, and lifelong bonds.

He graduated from Java High School as part of the close-knit Class of 1975, a group proud to include state championship baseball teammates. Darrell continued his love of the game at Huron College, where he played collegiate baseball and earned his business and accounting degree. His competitive spirit, teamwork, and steady presence followed him throughout life.

Professionally, Darrell worked a variety of jobs, most notably as a mortgage lender until his retirement. While he was proud of his work, his greatest pride was always found outside the office-at home, at the cabin, and surrounded by the people he loved most.

On February 20, 1982, Darrell married the love of his life, Debra (French). Together they built a life grounded in family, laughter, and unwavering support. He was a devoted husband and an incredibly proud father to his two sons, Henry and Benn. Darrell cherished coaching his boys in baseball, cheering them on from the sidelines, and later, simply spending time together, especially fishing whenever they could.

Darrell's greatest joy in life was being a grandpa. He loved his six grandchildren-Blake, Gunnar, Duke, Bristol, Gracelyn, and Tayenn-fiercely and without hesitation. He was the kind of grandpa who would drop everything to help, show up, or simply spend time. "Anytime," he'd say-and he meant it. You could often find him on the dock at the cabin with a fishing pole in hand, kids nearby or sitting on the red swing watching grandchildren splash in the water, usually with at least one tucked under his arm. No visit to Grandma and Grandpa's house ended without a small handful-or bag-of jellybeans sent home with the kids.

Darrell loved the outdoors in all seasons. He was an avid fisherman year-round, a passionate hunter, and enjoyed golfing with his league friends and playing pickleball weekly with a group of buddies. Sundays were often reserved for watching the Vikings, usually alongside his father-in-law, Duke.

Darrell was kind, humorous, dependable, and always carried a smile. He inspired those around him to be happy, be kind, and not take life too seriously. One grandson summed it up best when he said, "I bet Grandpa is ice fishing in heaven with Jesus, showing him the good spots."

He is survived by his wife, Debra; his sons, Henry (Jamie) and Benn (Brooke); his six beloved grandchildren; his siblings, Judy, Myron, Janette, Tamara; and his father-in-law, Duke French. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Bernice Grenz, and his mother-in-law, Phyllis French.

Visitation will be held at Maxon Family Cremation and Life Celebrations in Rochester, MN on December 29th, from 3:30pm - 6:00pm. Darrell chose cremation, and his ashes will be spread at his favorite place with his childhood friends and family during the next South Dakota pheasant opener-right where he belongs.