Beloved Naugatuck Little League Coach, 57, Mourned By Community

NAUGATUCK, CT — The Union City Little League and Naugatuck community is mourning the recent death of Kenneth Grohs Jr., a beloved coach, treasurer and family man.

Grohs died Saturday at the age of 57, according to his obituary. Born in Waterbury, he was a lifelong resident of Naugatuck and a staple of the Union City Little League family.

In a tribute posted to Facebook, the league referred to Grohs as a cornerstone of UCLL who dedicated "his time, heart and countless hours" to the recreational youth baseball and softball community for over 20 years.

"Kenny was more than just a board member...his commitment helped shape the league into what it is today," the league's tribute reads.

According to his obituary posted by Buckmiller Ford Mengacci Funeral Home, Grohs served as both a coach and treasurer for the league.

In addition to his work with UCLL, Grohs was also an Elk and worked for Eversource for 37 years, where he most recently served as a manager.

Before his time with UCLL, Grohs was a proud Peter J. Foley Little League alumnus, where his love for the game and community first began to grow, according to the league's tribute.

"He will be remembered not only for his tireless service, but also for the way he could always make us laugh," the tribute reads. "Whether it was a quick-witted joke or a lighthearted comment during meetings, he had a way of lifting our spirits — a gift we will deeply miss."

The league also noted Grohs, a father of two, took immense pride in watching his son grow up playing with UCLL.

A visitation for Grohs is scheduled to be held Friday evening from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Buckmiller Ford Mengacci Funeral Home, located at 82 Fairview Avenue in Naugatuck.

Funeral services and committal will be held at the convenience of the family, according to his obituary.

"We are forever grateful for everything Kenny did for our community," the league's tribute reads. "His legacy will live on in the fields, the friendships and the smiles of every child who plays the game he loved so much. Rest in peace, Kenny G. You will never be forgotten."

The league's full tribute to Grohs can be read here; a full obituary can be found here.