Gordene Dena Ward Groters

In Loving Memory

On June 25, 2026, we peacefully lost our beloved mom, sister, sister-in-law, aunt, cousin, friend, and so much more—Dena Ward Groters.

Dena was born on October 9, 1938, in Bakersfield, California, to Gordon and Dorothy Ward. She was the oldest sibling and shared a very special bond with her beloved brother, Dan Ward.

Dena was a devoted mother to Jan, Jill, and Donette Hicks. She was married to Larry Hicks until their divorce in 1972. In 1981, she married Vincent Groters, beginning a new chapter filled with love, companionship, and many adventures. Together, Dena and Vince enjoyed traveling throughout the states and making memories along the way.

Throughout her life, Dena was a hardworking and caring woman. During her years raising her family, she worked as a school aide at Beardsley School, served as a Blue Bird Scout leader, worked at Memorial Hospital, and later worked for Contel Telephone Company, from which she retired.

Following Vince’s passing, Dena continued to work, including at Shirley Meadows Ski Resort and for the Forestry Department in Lake Isabella. In her later years, she lived in Santa Barbara, where she helped manage her brother Dan’s property.

Dena was preceded in death by her parents, Gordon and Dorothy Ward; her beloved brother, Dan Ward; her daughter, Jill; and her niece, Anne-Marie Ward.

She leaves behind her daughters, Jan and Donette Hicks; her sister-in-law, Carol Seekins; her very special cousins, Dona and Ge-Anne; and several dear friends, including Rhoda, Jackie, and Marti, who were truly like family. Among those friends were classmates she had known and cherished for much of her life—friendships that stood the test of time.

For Donette, Dena became more than a mother; she became her best friend. Their relationship grew into a friendship filled with love, laughter, memories, and a bond that will never be broken. Losing her mother and best friend leaves an emptiness that words cannot fully express.

Dena will be remembered for her strength, independence, hard work, loyalty, and the many lives she touched throughout her years. She was a mother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend whose presence will be deeply missed.

Though she is no longer with us, the memories she gave us and the love she shared will remain in our hearts forever.

Rest peacefully, Mom. You were my mother, but you also became my best friend. I will love you forever, and I will carry you with me every day until we meet again.