Marianne Grandstaff (Grandy) is responsible for starting an obsession with festive and fun watermelon things over 40 years ago. 

She was born on May 9, 1930 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and grew up in Akron, Ohio. She became a school teacher after graduating from the University of Akron and worked as an elementary school teacher for over 30 years. 

She absolutely loved the vibrant colors and the fun designs of watermelon things. Her entire kitchen was adorned with watermelons — rugs, towels, plates, glasses, pictures, fun knickknacks, etc.

When Marianne was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease, her daughter and son-in-law moved her and and her watermelon collection from Lincoln, Nebraska to Denver, Colorado.

Today, the Watermelon Party honors her! Marianne loved family, fun, travel and entertaining. She also enjoyed pets and had a special place in her heart for her African Grey parrot “Rocco.” She was able to participate in the first two events before she passed away.