Michael J. Gruber, 83, of Mansfield found peace with the Lord on March 1, 2015.
Mike came from a Romanian family with strong beliefs and a hard work ethic. Mike was a true peacemaker. After years of playing football and baseball, he never lost the passion of competition, dedication, loyalty and love of the game on and off the field. In the 1950’s, Mike served as a member of the Mansfield Police Department. After leaving the force, Mike became a builder, contractor, developer and small business owner in Mansfield. He was forever devoted to his wife and children.
Mike is survived by his devoted wife of 65 years, Charleen Hamilton Gruber. Five children, Michael Gruber, Jr., Lynn Gruber, Jody (Mark) Thurin, Thomas Gruber, and Lisa (Ken) Parsons. Ten grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren and longtime canine Ditto.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Magdalena Gruber, sisters; Anna Littich and Marian Huff, brother; Joseph Gruber and daughter in law; Kathy Gruber.
Friends may call at Herlihy-Chambers Funeral Home, 173 Park Avenue West, on Thursday from 4-7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11:00 a.m. Friday at St. Peter’s Catholic Church with Rev. Gregory Hite officiating. Burial will follow in Mansfield Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St Jude’s Children’s Hospital or the YWCA of Canton OH Homeless shelter.
