He was born in Indianapolis, IN, but lived the majority of his life in Grand Rapids, MI. He graduated from Michigan State University in 1965 with a Masters Degree in Business Administration and went on to teach at MSU in their Hotel and Restaurant management program. He held two patents, one in 1971 for the building design of the restaurant Casey's Caboose and the other in 1982 for the design of restaurant working stations. A fine purveyor of food, design and excellence in every aspect of the restaurant business, he continued with his talents until his passing.
He was preceded in death by his parents Charles Thomas and Leila Mildred Gruner, wife, Cassie Prussner Gruner, siblings Jenean Thompson and George Gruner. He will be remembered by his children, Craig (Jodi) Gruner, Tammy Gruner (Edward) Durbin and Jennifer Gruner Durbin, as well as his grandchildren Courtney, Taylor, Katelin, Andrew, Christopher, Zachary, Conor, Spencer and Gabby along with several nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at 6 PM Friday, June 12, 2015 with visitation one hour prior starting at 5 PM at Cook Funeral Home - 2067 84th Street, Byron Center, MI 49315. Pam Stonehouse will be officiating. In honor of John, contributions may be made to Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp Public Radio at http://www.bluelake.org/radio/. The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www.cookcares.com.
Visitation Friday, June 12 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM Cook Funeral Home - Byron Center Chapel 2067 84th Street Byron Center, MI
Memorial Service Friday, June 12 6:00 PM Cook Funeral Home - Byron Center Chapel 2067 84th Street Byron Center, MI
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