Ranch life

by

Leonard “Carl” Grieb

July 1928 – March 2026


Leonard “Carl” Grieb a native of Arroyo Grande and lifetime resident of the Central Coast passed away March 3, 2026, at the age of 97, in his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was looking forward to being reunited with his bride of 75 years, Barbara, who passed away in May 2025.

Carl was born July 27, 1928 to Fred and Gertrude (Haven) Grieb and was the 8th of 9 children, all of whom have proceeded him in death.

Carl graduated from Arroyo Grande High School in 1947 and he married the love of his life, Barbara Lucille Decker, February 12, 1950. They have 3 daughters, Wynetta (Kevin) McClain and Margie (Scott) Runels of Oregon and Connie (Stan) Willems of Arroyo Grande. They have 9 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Carl was a dairy farmer in the 1950’s, an operating engineer for 25 years with Engel and Gray, of Santa Maria and always a cattle rancher and horseman. He accomplished so many things that most people would never even attempt.

In the early years he loved to run his hound dogs and enjoyed hunting a few nights a week. After retirement he enjoyed team penning, pack trips, hunting, cowboying and helping others. He was a good provider and very generous. He had a very strong work ethic, which he passed on to his daughters at an early age and loved competition. Even as a young boy Carl loved to buy, sell and trade. The story is
even told of him trading away his sister, Lorna’s cat! Even up to a couple of years ago he was still buying, selling and trading goats, pigs and cattle.

Carl was an avid reader, did suduko and loved a good game of Sorry. He loved to laugh, he loved his caregivers and he always loved a good practical joke. He was the best friend anyone could ever have and he always helped anyone who needed it. He loved his Lord and most of all his wife and family.

The legacy of Carl Grieb will live on for many generations.

A Celebration of Life and BBQ will be held April 11th, 11:00am at Grace Bible Church, 100 Rodeo Drive, Arroyo Grande.

In Lieu of Flowers, donations to honor Carl, who loved the youth and agriculture can be made to: Apela Foundation, Ag Adventure Day Camp, 4293 Lopez Dr. Arroyo Grande, CA 93420 Coastal Christian School, Ag Dept, 1005 N. Oak Park Blvd., Pismo Beach, CA 93449

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Letting Go

Chickens

Chicks ready to leave the nest.

Isaiah 41:13 “For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear I will help you.”

On the ranch we are always growing and raising things, but the most important item is our children. I had to claim his verse and many others as my beautiful daughter left the country life to move to the city.

There are times in life when one must learn to let go: of loved ones, of possessions, of control. In order to let go of something that is precious, you need to rest in God where you are complete. Take time to bask in the light of His love. As you relax more and more, your grasping hand gradually opens up, releasing your prized possession into His care.

One can feel secure, even in the midst of cataclysmic changes, through awareness of God’s continual presence. The One who never leaves you is the same One who never changes. God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. As you release more and more things into His care, remember that God never lets go of your hand. Here in lies your security, which no one and no circumstance can take from you. Adapted from Sarah Young-March 24
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“There are only two lasting bequests we can hope to give our children. One of these is roots (in Christ); the other, wings.” Hadding Carter
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Dear Lord may I release my cares into your hands. Thank you.  – Connie Grieb W.