William “Bill” Patrick Gruber passed away peacefully on January 12, 2016 at the age of 67, following a courageous battle with Leukemia. Bill was welcomed into heaven by God and so many of his loved ones. During his battle with Leukemia he had many ‘wins’ and made his time with us really count!
Bill was born on August 14, 1948, in Helena, Montana, to Donald ‘Bud’ and Mary ‘Dee Dee’ Gruber. Bill was the first boy born to this large, loving family. He went to school in Clancy and graduated high school from Jefferson County High School in Boulder. He then left home to serve his country as a Navy Seabee, stationed in California, Hawaii and Vietnam. He came home to the small community he cherished and found the cute little nursing student that soon became his bride. Bill married Vicki Joann Benson on November 24, 1972. This union started a life of memory making and a beautiful family of 3 daughters, then 3 sons-in-law and 10 grandchildren that were the light of his life.
Bill was trained as a heavy equipment operator and truck driver that started at age 16 helping Uncle Bob build the Libby Dam. These skills were further perfected in the Navy and then working for Skinner Enterprises, Maronick Construction, and Helena Sand & Gravel. Bill decided to try his hand at being a business owner, starting with a sawmill operation that turned into logging, that turned into trucking, and then to moving dirt. Gruber Excavating, Inc. was started with an old backhoe and dump truck. Bill believed that every job must be done right. He never cut corners and always finished a job to ‘spec.’ With Bill’s work ethic, ability, and expertise, the one man show steadily grew into a successful business that will continue to support his family for many years to come. He was awarded the Small Business of the Year Award in 2008 by Jefferson County JLDC and The Montana Very Small Family Business of the Year award in 2014. Family was always his priority, even in his business and work. Over the years, he employed his nephews, daughters, and his sons-in-law. He was so proud to work with them and teach them to operate and drive the way he did, and most importantly to instill his work ethic.
As soon as Bill returned home from the service, he joined the Clancy Volunteer Fire Department. He served his community for 43 years and remained an active member until the time of his death. During that time, he served has fire chief for many years and never missed “working” a single Easter egg hunt. This was a duty that he took very seriously. As the stories are told, he is responsible for saving more than a few lives. Although he never claimed to have done this on his own.
Bill loved the mountains of Montana and could tell stories of excursions in all seasons. His CB call name of ‘Side Hill Bill’ fit him perfectly. He would take his Jeep on terrain that most of us would never dream of trying. Of course, getting someone in the group stuck was always part of the fun. He later invested in land with his brother and cousins and this became his favorite place in the mountains. There were so many memories made at ‘the cabin.’ The stories will be told for years and years. He loved to have family and friends gather around the campfire, hike to the cliffs, slide on the slide, hunt, gather firewood, enjoy good food and do some front porch sitting.
He loved to camp, travel, and visit his beloved uncles any chance he got. In recent years, the winter trips he and Vicki took were a highlight for him.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Donald Patrick Gruber and Mary DeEtte Reardon Gruber; his sisters Penny Lynn Gruber, and Wendy Summrell; his paternal grandparents Ed & Dora Gruber and maternal grandparents Jack & Pat Reardon. He is survived by his devoted wife Vicki; daughters Cami (Greg) Robson, Marci (Chad) Parks and Corri (Chris) Barry; grandchildren Will, JP & Luke Robson, Dawson, Allison, Mattilyn and Cade Parks, and Cate, Kyli and Jaci Barry. Bill is also survived by mother & father-in-law, Bob and MaryAnn Benson; by siblings, Donna (Jerry) Ohs, Marilyn (Bob) Maphies, Patty (Laurie) Vossler, Pam (Larry) Trettin, John Gruber and Tim Gruber, sisters-in-law Mary (Bill Hoffman) Bair, Deb (Dean) LaRue and brother-in-law Mike (Becky) Benson; and also, numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and special friends.
Bill truly loved life and lived it as most of us only dream we could. He had a passion for what he did and “never worked a day in his life.” There was nothing more important to Bill than his family. From his beloved wife, to his kids, and grandkids; to his uncles that he loved as fathers; his brothers and sisters and his cousins that he loved as brothers and sisters, and friends he loved as all of the above. He was rarely seen without a grandchild or two, whether he was working, traveling, headed to the cabin or just running to the dump and doing chores. He loved adventure and travel, but he adored coming home to the community and the people in it he loved so much. He created a circle of love and support for us that will last us a lifetime.
We know the road to Heaven is now much smoother for all of us. We just aren’t sure if he is using an old CAT 12 or a brand new 140M to get that road to perfect grade for us.
Memorials may be sent to a charity of your choice or Camp Make-A-Dream, 90 Church Road, Gold Creek, MT 59733, or Clancy Volunteer Fire Department, P. O. Box 157, Clancy, MT 59634.
A Vigil service is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. Monday, January 18th, 2016 at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. A Funeral Mass is set for 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 19th, 2016 at SS Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church, 120 W. Riggs, East Helena. Burial with Military Honors will follow the Mass at St. Ann’s Cemetery in East Helena with a reception to be held in the lower level of the church immediately following the burial.
Please visit below to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of bill.
Service Schedule
Vigil
6:00 p.m.
Monday January 18, 2016
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Mass
10:00 a.m.
Tuesday January 19, 2016
SS Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church
120 W Riggs
East Helena, Montana 59635
Burial with Military Honors
After the Mass
Tuesday January 19, 2016
St. Ann's Cemetery
East Helena, Montana 59635
Reception
After the Burial
Tuesday January 19, 2016
SS Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church Lower Level
120 W. Riggs
East Helena, Montana 59635
Service Schedule
Vigil
6:00 p.m.
Monday January 18, 2016
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Mass
10:00 a.m.
Tuesday January 19, 2016
SS Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church
120 W Riggs
East Helena, Montana 59635
Burial with Military Honors
After the Mass
Tuesday January 19, 2016
St. Ann's Cemetery
East Helena, Montana 59635
Reception
After the Burial
Tuesday January 19, 2016
SS Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church Lower Level
120 W. Riggs
East Helena, Montana 59635
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The Bell Family says
We are so sorry for your loss. Sending hugs and healing thoughts your way.
Much Love, Miles, Kelsey, Dominic and Emilyn Bell
Terri and Bob Kunz says
Bill will be missed by many. God bless all of you during this time and long after as the heaven rejoices at Bill’s homecoming.
Heartfelt prayers and love, Terri
Betsy Riley says
Corri and family:
We’re so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Love, Betsy Riley
Kial Leach says
Such sad new, so sorry for your loss. Corri and family, I am sending you warm healing thoughts in this time of sadness. Bill will be missed.
Patricia Verzani says
Vicki and family,
We were saddened at the news of Bill’s passing. He put up such a valiant fight against this terribly disease. You will all miss him dearly. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you as you go forward into the future. Remember, Bill is now at peace.
Pat, Fred and Lisa Verzani
Terri carlson says
Such a Gentle Giant!! Thinking of you Vicki and Daughters. Its always to soon! May you find comfort in your loving memories.
Sid and Terri Burgess says
Our heartfelt condolences, to Vicki and your family. May happy, life long memories see you through this sad time.
Maura Gruber says
Vicki, Cami, Corri & Marci-
Thinking of you all at this time. Bill was one of a kind and will surely be missed. Hugs, thoughts and prayers to you all!
Vanessa Tolsoon says
Vicki & family
Our thoughts & prayers are with you all at this difficult time.
Vanessa & Chuck
jerry & joanne friedsam says
I worked with Bill in the field. He was a great fellow & good friend. Always gave me a tour of his job when you visited. jerry & joanne
Mike and Kristi Lewis says
To Corri, Chris and all your extended family.
We are so sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. He fought a hard struggle to the end, I am sure. I hope you find peace in knowing he is no longer hurting. Sending your family strength and joy as you celebrate Bill’s life. We hope your sorrow is soon replaced by your wonderful memories. Take Care… Mike and Kristi Lewis
jerry & joanne friedsam says
I worked with Bill in the field. He was a great fellow &good friend. Always gave me a tour of the job when you stoped. Jerrey Joanne
Jack Darrah says
Vicki and family,
We are so sorry for your loss. You are all in our prayers.
Jack and Carrie Darrah
Heidi Schubert says
Vicki and Family-We love you and are sorry for the loss of Bill. You are in our prayers always.
The Heidi Schubert Family
Ralph and Sandee Badger says
There are not words adequate to ease the pain at this time, but Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Our greatest comfort comes from the father! May He give you His peace! Love you all!
Jamon & Lisa Jewett says
Thoughts and prayers to the Gruber family. Bill had a great impact on the whole community, he will be missed.
Doug and Lynn Moon says
So sorry for your loss. Doug and Lynn Moon
Tannia Stebbins says
Corri and family
So sorry to hear about the passing of your dad. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time
Michael McCarthy says
So sorry to hear the news. He gave it a great fight and now can rest in peace. Prayers for all his wonderful family.
Michael and Elizabeth McCarthy
Clayton Waldron says
Prayers for the Gruber Family. We are so sorry for your loss. You are all in our prayers.
Clayton and Marion Waldron
Terry Hawkins says
Very sorry for the loss of your husband and father.
Philip and Laura Keating says
Your are in our thoughts and prayers. Find peace and comfort in your memories.
Vivian & Rick Lambert says
To the Gruber family – we are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you.
Tabitha McKinzie says
Thinking of all of you. So sorry to hear of your loss.
Penny Price says
I grew up with Bill and went to school with him for 12 years. I remember him as kind, fun-loving and always smiling that contagious grin. May you find comfort in your cherished memories and know that Bill is with you still, sending his love in every ray of sunshine. I’m so sorry for your loss.
Chuck and Annie Huxley says
So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Valerie "Rowley" Flansaas says
Cami, so sorry for the loss of your dad. We are keeping you and your family in our prayers and thoughts.
Brenda Miller says
I’m so sorry for your loss- my thoughts and prayers are with Bill and his loved ones. I treasure the memories of the fun times we shared with Vicki and Bill in Florida and Vegas❤️
Bev Marks Miller says
Vicki and family. ..my thoughts are with you. ..so sorry for your loss. Bill was such a great guy!
Mike Burke says
The Burke Family sends our sincere condolences to the Gruber family at the loss of your beloved Bill Gruber. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Mike and Cindy Burke
Sheri Sullivan says
Our Thoughts and Prayers to the family. Bill will be missed. I know I will miss his smiling face.
Deb Hendrix says
Sending heartfelt condolences to Vicki and the entire Gruber family. Bill was a special guy and will truly be missed.
Vicki Kroll says
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family at this time, Vicki. So sorry for your loss.
Belva & Richard says
Our condolences. So sorry to hear that Vicki. He was a great guy to us.
Connie Horning says
So sorry for loss Vickie and family. My prayers are with all of you.
Kori R. Dee says
Vicki and Family,
Prayers and blessings being sent your way. You are being lifted up in prayer by all those who love you, support you and care for you.
Sending a prayerful hug,
Kori and Steve Dee
Donna Coman says
Vicki & Family, I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you & your family.
Donna Coman
Karyn Herron says
• May God comfort you during this difficult time and may the love of those around you help you through the days ahead. Sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers to all of you.
Sue Olson and family says
So very sorry for your loss. Prayers and thoughts for your family. God Bless you all.
Ashlee Mikesell says
I am so sorry for your loss. There are no words to ease the pain but I am thinking of you.
Shanda Tompkins says
I loved baby sitting for Bill and his family. I am thankful for knowing you all. My prayers are with the family at this difficult time.
Shanda Tompkins, Larson
Mary Lou Potts says
So sorry gor your loss! Praying for strength & comfort at this very difficult time! May you each feel the arms of love wrapped around from your heavenly Father! Again so sorry. Mary Lou Potts
Mary Lou Potts says
So sorry I can’t spell “for your loss”!
Myrle Cunis says
Vicki, you and your family are in my prayers.. My fondest memories of growing up with your family in the neighborhood was the pleasure of babysitting for you. Bill had a knack to know if something was up with anyone of us and gives us a gentle nudge to let us know if we screwed up and we would be ok and consequences is part of growing up and not doing it again.
Love and miss all of you. Your family is in my prayers.
Myrle Cunis, Westover
Darla Towers says
Vicki so sorry to hear of your loss! Sending thoughts and prayers to you and the family from up here on the Highline.??
Doug & JoAnne Baum says
Vicki…..You and your family are in our hearts and prayers at this time.
Becky (Connole) Forrette says
Vicki and family, so sorry to hear about Bill. May you all be comforted in your memories. This was Heavenly Father’s plan, even though we may question why. Keep the faith and let it help you through this time. Thinking of you all. Hugs.
Rich & Susan Proul says
Vicki and family we are so very sorry to hear of your loss. Bill was such a great man and we will miss him. Keep your memories close in your heart and he will always be with you. Sending you our thoughts and prayers. The Proul and R&R family.
Roberta and Ken Threet says
Vicki and family:
So sorry to hear of your loss. Bill will be missed.
Tara Ferriter-Smith says
Marci, Vicki, and Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Bill was such an important part of your lives I can’t imagine your grief right now. His stories and memories will continue to be blessings. Hugs and love to you all.
God bless! Tara, Greg, Michael, and Timmy
Mary Stevens says
So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. God bless.
Maribeth Stevens and JoAnn Anderson
Vanessa Bolstad says
Our deepest sympathy to the Gruber family. He was an amazing man & will be missed by everyone who knew him!! I’m sure that road to heaven will be the perfect road for when we meet again! Cherish all those memories!!
Jim & Vanessa Bolstad
Ron and Pam Novak says
Sending our thoughts and prayers to the Gruber family at such a sad time. May you find comfort in the many warm, wonderful memories. God Bless.
Marie Francis says
Thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sidnie Bernhardt says
Corri and family;
Cherish the memories -so sorry for your loss.
Ron Rioux says
Dear Vicki and Family,
Please accept my deepest sympathy. I was only with Bill on several occasions, but they were always fine times. I am going to miss seeing him.
Debbie & Cliff Schenk says
I will always remember a drive on one of those side hills. Bill had a love of life that you felt when ever he was around. I’m glad he was a part of our lives and he will be missed. Much love to Vicki & all his family.
Don and Connie Arkell says
Don and I are thinking of the whole family at this sad time. We hope your memories will help you all through! Sending hugs.
Jamie vanhorssen says
Vicki and family , We are so sorry for your loss . Bill was a wonderful person and will be missed. He will be in your hearts forever .Our condolences Scott and Jamie Erickson and families
Karole Lee says
Dear Vicki and Family ~ Bill will be greatly missed by many. Bill was a wonderful person. He assisted me with many construction and excavation projects at my home and all work was done with perfection. I am so very sorry for your loss.
Kay and Jere Hoy says
To the Gruber family – We were so sorry to hear of Bill’s death. No one could have fought with more dignity or determination. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.
Kay and Jere Hoy
Randy Raymond says
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Gruber family to bill the world truly is a better place because you were in it
Sarah Bond says
Bill was a good man in all ways. Many thoughts and prayers to the family for your loss. Those of us who needed him to fix our roads will miss his integrity and skill. I never worried about doing business on a handshake with Bill, he was good to his word. Peace to the family.
Rick Marks says
Dear sweet Vickie and family
My thoughts and prayers have and will be with you.
Bishop George Leo Thomas says
Dear Vicki, Cami and family,
I have remembered Bill and your entire family in the celebration of Holy Mass. May the Angels lead him into paradise, and grant him well deserved peace and rest.
Randy & Cheryl Vukasin says
We are so saddened to hear of Bill’s passing. What a great guy that will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Sincerely,
Randy & Cheryl Vukasin
Von and Ron Pearson MCVFD says
Sorry for your loss.
Ed and Marge Gruber says
I am saddened to hear of Bill’s passing. My memories of my Montana cousins are many and I’m so gratefuly for our good times together. Marge and I are thinking and praying for the family at this most difficult time. Carrie “Gruber” Delgott – remembers Cami very well from the time they spent as kids at the Montana reunion.
Love, cousin Ed and Marge Gruber (Morton, Pa)
Kathi Marks says
Vicki, I just heard about Bill’s passing and I must say I was shocked! Your whole family is wonderful and I have very fond memories of both you and Bill. May comforting peace surround you now and forever as you continue on in this life’s journey.
Kathi Marks
Sid Babcock says
Bill and I were best friends when we served together over in Hawaii back in 1969. All he could talk about was getting home so he could get married. Sorry for your loss and God bless his soul.