Joseph K. Groscost

 Joseph K. Groscost, 81, of Sandusky, passed away in his home Saturday afternoon, October 18, 2025.  Affectionately known as "Coach G", Joe lived a life defined by family, education, and coaching excellence, leaving a profound impact on his community and the sport of swimming.

   After graduating from Sandusky High School and Ohio Wesleyan University, Joe began his career teaching and coaching in Northwest Ohio.  Joe's teams earned an extraordinary 845 dual meet wins, the most in Ohio high school history.  Throughout his 47-year coaching career, Joe's teams earned 162 League and District championships.  He was honored 7 times as "District Coach of the Year" and was named "Girls State Coach of the Year' in 1980. 

   From 1989 to 2003, Joe served as the President of the National Interscholastic Swim Coaches Association (NISCA).  In 2003, he received the "NISCA Hall of Fame Award", the association's highest honor.  A trophy with his name is displayed at the International Swimming Hall of Fame in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

   Beyond the high school pool, Joe taught and coached youth through the Vacationland Swim Club, which he founded in 1971.  Joe authored the book "The Basic Swimming Guide" and wrote over 25 published articles advancing his sport.  His passion for developing athletes and people left a lifelong impact on his students, colleagues, and community.  

   Joe is survived by his loving wife, Barbara "Barb" Mowry Groscost; daughter, Hannah (Michael) Kennedy of Greensboro, GA; son, Hans (Sue) Groscost of Sandusky, OH; brother, Jim Groscost; and his sister, Mary Ellen Wieber.  He was blessed with 5 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.  

   Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur Glenn Groscost and Geraldine Kennedy Groscost.

   The family will receive friends on Saturday afternoon, November 1, 2025, from 12 pm until 3 pm at the David F. Koch Funeral and Cremation Services, 520 Columbus Avenue, Sandusky, OH.  For family and friends a "Celebration of Joe's Life" will be held at 4 pm at the Sandusky Yacht Club, 529 E. Water Street, Sandusky, OH.

   The family suggests that memorial contributions can be made in his name to the Sandusky High School Athletic Department, c/o the Aquatic Center, 2130 Hayes Avenue, Sandusky, OH 44870.

   Your memories and words of comfort may be shared with Joe's family at davidfkoch.com.

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