Mike “Mad Dog” Groff lived a life that rarely kept him indoors. On Thursday, March 26, 2026, he passed away at his home in Mansfield at the age of 73, leaving behind a legacy shaped by open fields, early mornings, and the stories that come from both.
He was born March 30, 1952, in Mansfield to the late Robert Lister and Jean Laverne (Miller) Groff, and grew up in Richland County where his roots ran deep. A 1970 graduate of Lexington High School, Mike followed an early love of music to Chicago, attending VanderCook College of Music. Though his path would eventually lead elsewhere, that appreciation for music stayed with him, most notably in the choir at Lexington Presbyterian Church, where his voice found its place among others.
Mike made his living in a profession built on relationships. A lifelong salesman, he spent years working in the auto industry before taking the step to own his own dealership. He understood people and people understood him. There was a consistent straightforwardness about Mike that made doing business with him feel more like a conversation than a transaction.
In retirement, he returned more fully to what he loved most which was the outdoors. He founded his own hunting guide business, North Central Ohio Varmint Express, where he specialized in long range shooting, known for his accuracy and patience. He spent his days doing what had long come naturally: teaching and sharing. Whether with a young first-time hunter or a seasoned outdoorsman, Mike took seriously the responsibility of passing along knowledge which included where to look, how to wait, and why it mattered. For him, it was never only about the trophy but the experience itself.
He was a longtime member of the Lexington V.F.W. Post 5101, where friendships were easy and stories were often retold. Those who knew him there knew his loyalty ran deep, and that time spent together was never taken for granted.
Mike will be remembered by his daughters, Jennifer Groff and Jaime (Shaun) Vest; his grandson, Fletcher Vest; his sisters, Shelley Paxton and Daniele Crokie; and a wide circle of friends who knew him simply as “Mad Dog,” a name that carried both affection and familiarity.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his former wife, Terry Moyer Groff, and his brother, Shane Groff.
Family and friends will gather from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Monday, April 6, 2026, at the Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home. A graveside service will follow in Lexington Cemetery with Celebrant Dave Roberts officiating.
The Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home is honored to care for Mike and to serve the Groff family. To leave a condolence for the family or share a fond memory please visit Mike’s obituary page at www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com
Funeral Home: Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home
Website: www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com