Jeffrey Grabow

Jeffrey Lynn Grabow, a beloved community leader, banker, and family man, passed away November 29, 2024, after a courageous 13-year battle with pancreatic cancer and subsequent complications. Born on October 13, 1947, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Dorothy (Higgins) Grabow and Harry Grabow, Jeff lived a life of service, dedication, and joy that left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Jeff grew up in Detroit Lakes, where he developed deep roots and a profound connection to his community. He attended Detroit Lakes High School and went on to graduate from Moorhead State University. There, he joined the TKE fraternity, where he formed lifelong bonds. These friendships provided immense laughter, joy and support through the years. During his college summers, Jeff worked as a forest firefighter in Idaho, earning funds to pay for his education. He also served in the National Guard.

After college, Jeff embarked on a career in banking that spanned decades. Beginning at First National Bank in Detroit Lakes and moving on to American Bank and Trust in Moorhead, he eventually retired as the President of Bremer Bank in Detroit Lakes. Jeff found great fulfillment in his career, cherishing the meaningful connections he built with both clients and colleagues over the years. In every role, Jeff’s leadership and integrity shone brightly, earning him respect from all who worked with him.

Jeff’s commitment to his community extended far beyond his professional life. He came from a long line of community leaders and embraced that legacy wholeheartedly. As a member and leader in community organizations such as the Jaycees, Detroit Lakes Youth Hockey program, Kiwanis, United Way, and too many others to name, he consistently gave back to the town he loved. Jeff’s natural leadership skills made him the guiding force on any committee he joined, shaping initiatives and projects that benefitted countless lives.

A man of many interests, Jeff found joy in old Westerns, “oldies” music, American history, and a slapstick comedy never failed to make him laugh. He loved the outdoors, especially skiing in the Rocky Mountains with friends and family, and his years golfing with "the boys". His early days as a caddy at the Detroit Lakes Country Club inspired a lifelong love for the sport. 

Above all, Jeff cherished his family. He was a devoted husband to the love of his life, LeAnn, whom he married on May 8, 1971. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared adventures.

Jeff was a hands-on father who never missed one of his children’s events, cheering them on with pride and unwavering support. In his later years, he found immense joy in spoiling his grandchildren. At his ski condo in Colorado, Jeff helped teach his grandchildren to ski, just as he taught his children many years before. At his beloved lake home, Jeff built bonfires, hosted fish fries, and spent countless hours pulling his grandchildren behind the boat. These moments were filled with joy and will be treasured by his family for generations.

Jeff’s legacy is one of kindness, leadership, and love. His contributions to his community and the lives he touched will not be forgotten. He leaves behind a world made brighter by his presence and a family deeply grateful for the time they shared with him. Jeff Grabow’s memory will forever be a source of inspiration and comfort to all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife, LeAnn; his children, their spouses, and their children, Andrea & Mike Glass with Anna and Ellie in Vail, Colorado, and Matt & Michelle Grabow with Preston, Parker, Lilia and Lukas in Prior Lake, MN; his siblings, Richard & Gail Grabow, Gordon & Nancy Grabow, June Grabow & Jerry Miller, and Jon & Sue Grabow; his in-laws Ron & Deborah Fuglie, Lynn & Richard Schram, and Lori & Tom Mayfield; and many nieces and nephews. All of whom will continue to cherish his memory and carry forward the lessons he imparted.

A celebration of life will be held on June 13, 2025, in Detroit Lakes. Details to follow.