NEW BEDFORD, MA – Henry R. Groebe, DMD, 88, of New Bedford, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford, surrounded by his loving family. He was the devoted husband of Nanette J. "Nan" (LaBelle) Groebe.

Born in New Bedford, Henry was the son of the late William T. and Deminga (Roderiques) Groebe. After graduating from New Bedford High School, Henry attended UMass Amherst, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree and excelled in track. He continued his education at Tufts Dental School, earning a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry. Henry served as a Captain in the U.S. Army Dental Corps at Aberdeen Proving Grounds, Maryland, from 1961 to 1963 and was honorably discharged.

In 1963, Henry returned to New Bedford with his family and began a successful private practice in general dentistry, which he continued for many years. He also held several prestigious positions, including roles with the Bristol County House of Correction, Harvard Dental School, and the Job Corps Center. After retiring from private practice in 1991, Henry remained active in dentistry, working at MCI Norfolk, Southeastern Correctional Center, and later serving as the Coordinator of Health Services at the Bristol County House of Correction. Additionally, he served on various committees and was a member of the Board of Directors at the New Bedford Institution for Savings and the New Bedford YMCA. Henry was also the Chairman of the Board of Trustees at New Bedford Vocational High School.

A man of many passions, Henry was an avid golfer and a former member of both the Allendale and New Bedford Country Clubs. He also enjoyed playing racquetball at the Faunce Corner Club. More than anything, Henry cherished spending time with his close family and friends, especially his grandchildren. A gifted conversationalist, he was always ready to share a story, with one of his favorite pastimes being reminiscing about the old West End.

Henry is survived by his wife, Nan; four children, Kimberly LeTendre (Gregory) of Chestnut Hill, Fern Groebe of Cambridge, Mark W. T. Groebe (Patti) of North Easton, and Kaelan Demelo (Troy) of Dartmouth; three grandchildren, Finn and Olivia Groebe and Hallie LeTendre; a sister, Jean (Groebe) Smith of New Bedford; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is also survived by his former wife, Geraldine Groebe, the mother of Kimberly, Fern, and Mark.

In accordance with his wishes, Henry will be cremated. Private arrangements and interment at the Massachusetts National Cemetery are under the direction of Donaghy New Day Cremation and Funeral Care, 465 County Street, New Bedford. For the memorial register, please visit www.newdayfunerals.com.

A memorial gathering will be held on February 8, 2025, from 1 – 4 p.m. at the Wamsutta Club, 427 County Street, New Bedford.