Robert Gruss

Robert “Bob” Gruss, Sr., 85, of Stevensville, passed away on Saturday, June 12, 2021 at Spectrum Health Lakeland after a long battle with cancer. Per Bob’s request, his body was donated to the University of Michigan’s Body Donation Program so he could help find a cure for cancer. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Berrien County Cancer Services, Inc., 3900 Hollywood Rd., St. Joseph, MI 49085 or the Stevensville Seventh Day Adventist Church, P.O. Box 182 Stevensville, MI 49127. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Bob was born on July 29, 1935, in Benton Harbor to Andrew and Zona (Rea) Gruss. He attended and graduated from St. John’s Catholic High School. Following high school, Bob proudly enlisted in the United States Navy where he served on the USS Perry from 1952 until 1956. On July 13, 1957, Bob married the love of his life, Bonnie Hoadley, in Watervliet. For over 40 years, he worked as a press operator at Burch Printers and for a number of those years he also held the title of supervisor. Bob enjoyed photography and developing his photos, and being outdoors camping & fishing. He also loved to travel anywhere that had history involving the US Navy. While his grandchildren were in middle school and high school, Bob would be found at nearly all of their events supporting his grandchildren and the Lakeshore Lancers. Bob loved his family more than anything and will be missed by all who knew him. Bob is survived by his loving wife of nearly 64 years, Bonnie; children, Pattie (Mike) Keith of St. Joseph and Bob, Jr., (Carla Holub) Gruss of Florida; daughter-in-law, Cathy Bowman Gruss of Monticello, IN; grandchildren, Jodie (Mike) Perrin and Kevin (Jenn) Keith; great-grandchildren, Natalia & Nicholas Perrin, and Dylan & Landry Breault; and brother-in-law, Edward Hemerling of Tamarac, FL. He was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Zona Gruss; sisters, Patricia Gruss and Janice Hemerling; and granddaughter, Megan Marie Gruss.