Phillip "Bear" Grimm

Phillip “Bear” Grimm, 76, of Nixa, Missouri, passed away on April 18, 2026, leaving behind a trail of stories, laughter, and more than a few raised eyebrows.

Born September 19, 1949, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Fred and Peggy Grimm, Bear grew into a man who was hard to miss and even harder to forget. He served as a United States Marine in Vietnam, among the ranks sometimes called the “Walking Dead” near the war’s end—a nickname he promptly proved wrong by surviving, earning a Purple Heart, and coming home with both grit and a grin.

Bear had a knack for seeing beauty where others might not. An artist at heart, he crafted canes with a distinctive Native American style and flair—each one a little piece of his spirit, equal parts strength and storytelling. When he wasn’t creating, he could often be found on a motorcycle, chasing the horizon or at least finding a good excuse to take the long way home.

He was known for his sharp wit and fantastic sense of humor, the kind that could sneak up on you and leave you laughing long after the moment passed. Bear carried himself with a rough-and-tough exterior, but those who knew him well understood the truth: underneath it all was a genuine teddy bear—generous, kind, and always willing to give more than he took.

In 2016, Bear made a decision he spoke of with deep pride—he accepted Jesus into his heart, a moment that brought him peace and a steady sense of purpose in the years that followed.

And yes, Bear was a charmer. A bit of a ladies’ man, he had an easy way about him that made people feel seen, heard, and occasionally swoon. He didn’t mind.

Phillip “Bear” Grimm leaves behind a legacy of resilience, creativity, faith, and warmth—a reminder that a strong exterior can house a deeply gentle soul, and that a life well-lived is one that leaves people smiling when they think of you.

Bear is survived by his siblings, Freddie Michael (Joani) Grimm, Paula Small, Suzanne (Michael) Corporan, Daniel (Kathy) Grimm, John Grimm, and Sharon (Charlie) Rogers; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Bear was preceded in death by his parents, as well as his siblings Kyle Grimm, Andrea Dixon, Kenneth Grimm, and Kevin Grimm.

Arrangements are under the direction of Adams Funeral Home, and cremation rites are accorded by Adams Crematory.