Francis Edward “Frank” Gruza, 67 of Coldwater passed away of brain cancer on Saturday, December 26, 2020 at Grand Vista while surrounded by his loving family.
A Mass of Christian burial will take place at 12:00 pm on Tuesday, December 29, 2020 at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Coldwater with Fr. Dan Hyman officiating. A private burial will take place at Lester Cemetery. Prior to mass, a live stream Rosary service will take place at 11:15 am on Tuesday.
Francis was born July 29, 1953 to Francis A. and Lillian (Preiczer) Gruza in South Bend, IN. Almost twenty years later, on April 28, 1973 he married the love of his life, Sharon Arsenault at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Hillsdale. He earned an Associate’s Degree from Kellogg Community College in Electrical Technologies and Corrections. Frank put his knowledge to work by spending 35 years at Douglas Auto Tech as a maintenance electrician. After Douglas, he spent 8 very proud years working at Michigan Works as an Employment Specialist. He frequently expressed how his time as an employment specialist was one of the most rewarding experiences of his lifetime. Frank also owned and operated G & W Dock Service for 25 years throughout the tristate area.
Frank was a man of strong faith and a member of St. Charles since 1974 where he also was a member of the Knights of Columbus. Frank served as both President and Vice President of UAW Local #822 while at Douglas. He was a long time member of the Branch County Sportsman’s Club where he also volunteered with instruction of shooting and hunter’s safety. Frank was involved with the Branch County Food Pantry and the Branch County Friend of the Dems. Frank was an avid Notre Dame football fan. He also enjoyed the outdoors, mainly going hunting and fishing. Frank loved to make people laugh and spend summer days out on Coldwater Lake. He will be remembered for his work ethic, always trying to help anyone in need, and being able to have a conversation with anyone.
Frank is survived by his wife of 47 years, Sharon Gruza of Coldwater; his children Joseph (Renee) Gruza of Coldwater, Dave (Yuwen) Gruza of Scottsdale, AZ, and Sarah Gruza of Chicago, IL; his siblings James Gruza, John (Donna) Gruza, and Jacqueline Gruza all of Dayton, OH; his grandchildren Kacie, Jasmine, Andrew, and Emily; his nieces Hannah, and Lauren Gruza; several close work friends at Douglas and MI Works, and long-time neighborhood residents.
Memorials can be directed to the Branch County Food Pantry, Confections with Convictions, or the family.
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