Claude Grinnell 1945-2019

Claude Lawrence Grinnell, 74, Topeka, died Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2019, at his home.

He was born July 13, 1945 in Topeka, the son of Joseph and Nellie Mae Myers Grinnell. He graduated from Topeka High School in 1963 and attended one year at Haskell Indian Nation University (formerly named Haskell Institute).

Mr. Grinnell served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam era and was stationed in Puerto Rico. He worked for several years running a printing press for KSHSAA and later worked at Prairie Band Casino as a heavy-duty cleaner.

He was a member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation.

He married Carol Shobney-Heimiller in 1966. They divorced. He later married Susan Mitchell. They divorced.

Survivors include a daughter, Kim Schimmel, Topeka; a brother, Bob Grinnell, Tiff City, Mo.; two grandchildren, Austin and Ainsley Schimmel; and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Nellie Grinnell; two sisters, Sara Conner and Lorraine Bales; and a brother, Gene Grinnell.

A celebration of Mr. Grinnell’s life will be held at a later date. Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436 is in charge of arrangements.