Bernard F. Gruber

Bernard Francis "Bud" Gruber, age 84, died peacefully on October 12, 2016, at Bayleigh Chase in Easton. He is the son of the late Ellen Frei and Bernard M. Gruber. Bud was born in Bethlehem, PA, on February 23, 1932, and grew up in Wyomissing, PA, in a home where education was of great importance, as his mother was the grade school principal. He graduated from Wyomissing High School in 1949, and Pennsylvania State University in 1953. He was employed by the Olivet Boys Club in Reading, PA, and then served for two years in the US Army. Subsequently, he worked for the Prudential Insurance Company in both New York City and Allentown, PA. Bud moved to Devon, PA, to work for Albert J. Lussier, The Country Squire, a clothier for men and women, and a business he later owned. He was a Rotarian, a sailor on the Sassafras River, a skier, an avid blood donor, a Conestoga High School band parent, a volunteer for the Devon Horse Show, and a pilot of both power and soar planes. At the time of his retirement, Bud moved to Oxford, MD, and quickly engaged in the life of his new community. He was a member of the Tred Avon and Poplar Islands Yacht Clubs, where he served in leadership roles. Bud loved being on his boat, painting, traveling and collecting beautiful art. Key West, FL, became his winter home as he loved all that Key West offered, including walking to daily mass, serving as a Eucharistic minister, and his treasured role as a volunteer at the soup kitchen. His bike became his preferred method of transportation for all errands, and he loved being able to walk to galleries, music venues, and restaurants. Whether working in his business or being retired in Oxford or Key West, Bud was known for the personal touches he took with his customers, family, and friends. He took great pride in remembering names and events; his sense of humor; and his ability to find the good in any person or situation. He loved his grandchildren, seeing the growth of their talents in the arts, athletics, and in their ability to banter with him. Finally, Bud was a friend to all, as he loved the ability to call friends daily just to check in, and to understand how he could help in any way. He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Janice Murphy Gruber; his son, Christopher Gruber and his wife, Dana Gusmer Gruber; his grandchildren, Heidi Lussier Gruber, Timothy Baxter Gruber, Greta Elizabeth Gruber; his brother, John William Gruber, and his wife Joan Heiser Gruber; and Downey nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his first wife and Chris’ mother, Verna Lussier Gruber; and his sister, Anne Crecencia (Nancy) Gruber Simaitis and her husband, Gervydas Simaitis. A service will be held on Friday, October 21, 2016, at 11 AM, at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church at 1210 South Washington Street, Easton, MD 21601. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Basilica of Saint Mary Star of the Sea, 1010 Windsor Lane, Key West, FL 33040.

Bernard F. Gruber

February 23, 1932 - October 12, 2016