Michael Grumley, born on July 6, 1942, in Bettendorf, Iowa, and passing away on April 28, 1988, was a visionary American writer and artist, whose life was a rich tapestry of literary exploration and advocacy for the LGBTQ community. His journey, marked by a blend of artistic exploration and deep involvement in the LGBTQ community, began in the Midwest, where he attended the University of Denver, the City College of New York, and the Iowa Writers' Workshop. He also earned a B.S. Degree in Philosophy from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 1964.
A founding member of The Violet Quill, Grumley played a pivotal role in shaping post-Stonewall gay literature. His partnership with Robert Ferro, another founding member, enriched both his personal life and professional work. Grumley's column "Uptown" in the New York Native showcased his insightful perspectives on a range of topics.
Following the deaths of Grumley and Ferro, their legacy continued through the Ferro-Grumley Foundation, which created the annual Ferro-Grumley Award for LGBT fiction in conjunction with Publishing Triangle, supporting and recognizing LGBTQ literature.
Grumley's unique interests led him to author "There are Giants in the Earth," a book on Bigfoot that explored the possibility of anthropoid giants and their modern-day survivors. His diverse works spanned various genres, reflecting his wide-ranging interests and talents.
In addition to his earlier works, Michael Grumley also dreamed of writing thrillers in a unique way. He envisioned complex, multi-genre stories with unique plots that captivated and surprised readers. This vision came to fruition in titles like "BREAKTHROUGH," "AMID THE SHADOWS," and "THROUGH THE FOG," all deeply human stories with unexpected endings.
Michael C. Grumley, a resident of Northern California, was not just a prolific writer but also a devoted father to his two young daughters. An avid reader and runner, he cherished every moment with his girls, doting on them at every opportunity.
At the time of his passing, Grumley was working on the next installment of his "Breakthrough" series, continuing his passion for creating engaging and thought-provoking literature. His life and work remain a testament to his dedication to both his craft and his family, leaving a lasting impact on the literary world and those who knew him.
Michael Grumley's Website: https://michaelgrumley.com/