Walter J. Gruenes

1930 - 2021

Walter Josef Gruenes, age 91, passed away on November 20, 2021 in Skokie, Illinois. He was born on April 21, 1930 in Aachen, Germany to Johanna and Walter Gruenes.

Walter actually spent the first three years of his life in Florida, until his family moved back to Germany in 1933. He was raised in Munich, Germany and lived there until 1956, when he moved to the Chicago area permanently.

In 1957 he met the love of his life, Elfriede, and they were married for over 56 years. They settled in Skokie, Illinois in 1960, to raise their family. Walter joined the Lincolnwood Police in 1963 and retired from the force 31 years later. Walter was presented with the "Key to Lincolnwood" at his retirement celebration.

Walter and Elfriede enjoyed raising their 2 boys, tending to their vegetable garden, playing tennis, traveling, taking long walks along the Evanston shores of Lake Michigan, and visiting the Chicago Botanic Garden.

He loved this country and proudly displayed the American Flag on his car and balcony and regularly wore a hat displaying the American Flag.

Walter is survived by his sons Wally (Loretta), Gordon (Mary) and grandchildren Erik (Katie), Kristina (Bradley), Peter and Matthew and sister Inge. He was predeceased by his wife Elfriede, and brother Dieter.