Local man known for "Superman" alter-ego dies

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — You may have seen him around town, donning a pair of blue tights and a red cape. With a Superman shield worn across his chest, Walter Charles Grogg, Jr. brought smiles to the people of Bakersfield.

Grogg died on May 2 at the age of 84.

His family said he was a "unequivocally pure, loving and kind soul."

He was born October 27, 1935, in Carpinteria, CA, to Hope Berniece Amundsen and Walter Charles Grogg, Sr. Walter was well known in Bakersfield for his alter ego "Superman".

Grogg could often be found at local sporting events in his Superman suit, his favorite being football and the North High Stars.

According to his family, in recent years, Grogg was best known for his almost daily visit to Barns and Noble and Dagny's Coffee Shop, at times posing as "Clark Kent", a mild manner reporter.

He is survived by his brother, Brian Lampshire, sisters Gay Nakanishi and Joy Gonzales, numerous cousins, and nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews.

Due to the restrictions of the coronavirus, a private Graveside service will be held at Union Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Beale Memorial Library, 701 Truxtun Ave., Bakersfield, CA 93301.