Michael Allen Gruninger

Michael Allen Gruninger was born on November 27, 1950 to Richard and Irene Gruninger. He returned to his eternal home to be with his dad on July 12, 2018. Mike, Dad, Brother, Son, Papa, "My Favorite", and, most importantly, "Dr. Wet Whistle", is survived by his loving wife of 24 years, Jacki, his adoring mother, Irene, his "band of brothers" Richie, Steven, and Mark, his beloved daughters Heather and Hayley, his five beautiful grandchildren, Kaylee, Kanon, Zach, Meghan and Claire, and his four legged "sack o' taters", Gus. According to his mother, Mike came into this world like a whirlwind, lived life in a whirlwind, loved, cared, nurtured, debated, and interjected himself into the process as intensely as a whirlwind, and then exited this life in a whirlwind. Mike was comfortable in his own skin. There wasn't an event, a crowd, or any gathering where Mike was uncomfortable, and wasn't the center of attention. One can't be missed unless one is both loved and also loves unconditionally. In short, that describes Mike completely. All will remember fondly, and therefore, miss intensely, his quick wit, self-deprecating humor, sarcasm, and his warmth. Mike was a member of the Elks club. He served his family, his community and his country with conviction and pride. He served in the Air National Guard with distinction. After that, he was a proud member of the Englewood Fire Department for 25 years. Mother Teresa once said, "At the end of life we will not be judged by how many diplomas we have received, how much money we have made, how many great things we have done. We will be judged by "I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat, I was naked and you clothed me. I was homeless, and you took me in." To that end, from his family and his friends, we say, Job well done Mike!

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UPDATE: Celebration of Life has been cancelled.