Robert G. Gruber, age 80 of Delaware died Friday afternoon, March 8, 2012 at Select Specialty Hospital in Columbus.
He was born on March 22, 1932 in Waldo to the late Wilbert and Dorothy (Rengert) Gruber. With his hair slicked back in fifty’s style, he graduated from Willis High School in 1952. Upon graduation he entered the US Air Force and during the Korean Conflict and later in the Ohio National Guard.
Robert worked 37 years for the Delaware City Schools in the custodial department, retiring in 1987. He was a member of the St Mark’s Lutheran Church and both the Delaware Moose and Eagles.
An outdoorsman in his younger years, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping. It was during his youth that he developed an interest in working on cars as well as racing go-carts. An avid fan of NASCAR racing, he collected bottles and favored watching birds.
Easy going in nature, he possessed a sly sense of humor and was always willing to help in any way. His home was always as open as his heart. In his home you were made to feel welcome and accepted. A friend to many, Robert treasured visiting with them and his family.
He will not only be remembered for his love of family, but his warm gentle ways and smile.
Survived by son: Michael Gruber of Delaware; daughter: Christine (Leon) Hamelers of New Bloomington; grandchildren; Valerie (Shane) Akers, Dustin Cook, Jennifer (Justin) Hixson, John (Piroska) and James Hamelers; great grandchildren: Kendal Akers, Jordan Hamelers, Cadence Hixson, sister: Jean Black of Fairview, Oregon, sisters-in-law: Rita Dennis, Dorothy Rayburn of Delaware, Charlotte Cordial of Worthington.
Preceded in death by wife of 58 years: Juanita (Cordial) on March 29, 2010 and son John on October 16, 1997.
Closing with a bit of Robert’s humor…… “Off we go like a herd of turtles”.
Friends may call Monday from 4-7 p.m. at the DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home, 75 W. William Street, Delaware, where funeral services will be held 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, where Rev. Jennell Rue will officiate. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery with military honors provided by the Delaware County Veterans Association.
Memorial contributions can be made to St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 28 E. William St., Delaware, OH 43015 or Home Reach Hospice, 561 W. Central Ave., Delaware, OH 43015.
Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com
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