Stephen Paul Griner

Steve passed away in the Netherlands on June 20, 2026, while celebrating his and his wife Dottie Jo’s 50th wedding anniversary. Born in Beech Grove, IN, he was the second of five children to Josephine (Agresta) Griner and Paul Griner. Steve graduated from Roncalli (Chartrand) High School in 1970.

In 1976, Steve married Dottie Jo Thomas, the love of his life. Together, they built a beautiful family, a successful business, and a lifetime of unforgettable memories. Steve began his career in the grocery industry at 14, working in a small family-owned store in Indianapolis. He later joined Standard Grocery, becoming a store manager in several Indianapolis locations. After Standard Grocery was sold, Steve managed Cub Foods, the first large grocery chain in Indianapolis.

Steve always dreamed of owning his own business. With encouragement from his father-in-law, he moved to Alabama, where he and Dottie built a thriving company, eventually owning three GRINER’s stores, including their largest in Hazel Green. Their children learned the business alongside them. Once they felt the company was in good hands, Steve retired, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, integrity, friendship, and compassion. Steve and Dottie then moved to The Villages, where he spent much time on the golf course.

Steve lived life with enthusiasm and was known for his contagious laugh, generous spirit, and kind heart. He never met a stranger and was always willing to lend a helping hand, offer encouragement, or speak candidly. Despite health challenges, he pursued his passions, including golf and working on cars. Old Blue will miss you, but it is in good hands. The Indianapolis COLTS were a beloved team, and game time was sacred to Steve.

Steve and Dottie loved hosting family gatherings and cherished their travels together. More than anything, Steve will be remembered as the best man anyone could know.

Steve is survived by his wife, Dottie Jo; his children, Tonya Jo (Rodney) Allen and Chad (LeeAnn) Griner; his grandchildren, Randy, Rachel, and Samantha Allen, and Chance and Gavin Griner; his brother Tom (Sandy) Griner, and his sisters Donna Maynard, Patti (Jeff) Peirce, and Beverly (Austin) Stretch; his sister-in-law Sue (Jim) Marsh; and his nieces and nephews, Rhiannon Mobley, Allison Griner Crawford, Michael Griner, Kyle Stretch, Drake Zeibold, Crystal Wilson, Scott Wilson, and Travis Marsh.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Josephine Agresta Griner and Paul Griner; his parents-in-law, Dorothy and Harold Thomas; his sister-in-law Eugenia (Lloyd) Wilson; his sister-in-law Cindy Griner; and his brother-in-law John (Rick) Maynard.

Honor his memory today by sharing a favorite story, laughing as he would have, extending kindness to others as he did, and holding your loved ones close.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 24, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Nativity Catholic Church, located at 7225 Southeastern Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46239. For additional information, please contact the church office at (317) 357-1200.