William "Bill" Grau, Jr.

William Ralph Charles Grau, Jr., affectionately known as Bill, passed away peacefully due to renal failure on September 5, 2023, in Columbia, MD, surrounded by family and friends. Born on August 12, 1932, in Baltimore, MD, Bill lived many years in Carroll County.

Bill was a proud graduate of Polytechnic High School. He led careers as a Surveyor and as an Engineer for companies including Whitman Requardt, Xerox, Black and Decker, and BAE Systems.

Bill loved to read, play music and serve the Masonic Order. A talented guitar player, he often filled his home with beautiful melodies that brought joy and comfort to those around him. He began playing with his father in The Tall Cedars String Band. In later years, he played at various venues around Maryland. Bill's love for music was matched only by his commitment to the Masonic Order, where he was a respected and active member. Beginning with the DeMolay, he was an active member with the Masons and the Scottish Rite. He belonged to various lodges, including Tuscan No. 202, Mt. Vernon No. 151, Waverly No. 152, Mt. Moriah No. 116 and his most recent Corinthian No. 93. He held various offices, including Junior Warden, 5 terms as Secretary and was honored as Worshipful Master 4 times.

As a beloved family man, he is survived by his son, Bill Grau, III, and his daughter, Cyndi Logue, and her husband, Jim. Bill was a cherished grandfather to Carl Edler and his wife, Renee, Josh Edler and his wife, Jillienne, and Eric Edler and his partner, Erin. He was a loving brother to Art Grau and his wife, Kathleen, Lenore Bredthauer and her husband, Gary, and his predeceased sister, Alice DeBarge and her late husband, Bob.

In addition, he leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews: Bob DeBarge and his wife, Lucy, John DeBarge and his wife, Lynn, Shelly McLaughlin, Scott Hall and his fiancée Moje, Paula Grau, and Donna Gallagher and her husband, Shane. His many grand nieces and nephews will remember him fondly for his warmth, wisdom, and the joy he brought to family gatherings. His friend of 75 years, Al Kaestner, any many others, will miss him greatly.

Bill's life was marked by a deep sense of duty, a passion for knowledge, and an unwavering commitment to his family and friends. His love for music enriched the lives of those around him, and his dedication to his profession left a lasting legacy in the field of engineering.

Though he will be deeply missed, Bill's spirit will continue to live on in the memories and hearts of those who knew him. His life was a testament to the power of dedication, the value of family, and the beauty of a life well-lived. As we remember Bill, we celebrate a life marked by accomplishment, love, and a profound impact on those fortunate enough to have known him.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a favorite charity in Bill’s memory: An animal rescue site, The Kidney Foundation, Gilchrest, The Autism Society, Shriner’s Children’s Hospital.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of William "Bill" Grau, Jr., please visit our floral store.