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MICHAEL GRUBER Obituary
loving husband, father, grandfather and friend passed away on September 13 after battling a long illness with the same dignity, tenacity, intelligence, and humor that characterized his entire life. Internationally recognized for his revolutionary approach to the treatment of brain tumors, Dr. Gruber was Director of the Department of Neuro-Oncology at NYU Langone Medical Center and Medical Director of the Brain Tumor Center of New Jersey at Overlook Medical Center. The author of many scholarly articles and contributions to medical textbooks, Dr. Gruber served throughout a distinguished career as Clinical Instructor of Neurology at the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University, Associate Professor of Neurology at UCLA Medical School, Assistant Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School, and Clinical Professor of Neurology and Neurosurgery at NYU School of Medicine. Dr. Gruber's groundbreaking work was at the forefront of medical science as he brought the first CAT scan machine to New Jersey. An advocate for innovation, he developed imaging centers featuring among the first MRI machines in the nation. Speaking at medical symposiums around the world, Dr. Gruber vigorously defended the use of advanced technology during a time when these machines were considered toys. His research and use of experimental protocols brought light and life to the suffering, and his steadfast study of medicine continued until his final days. Dr. Gruber championed his family with joy, and his accomplishments were coupled with a humble and gentle manner that will be deeply missed by one and all. A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, September 24. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to Voices Against Brain Cancer in honor of Dr. Gruber and the brave patients he served.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Cathy Varvara
September 11, 2023
Dr. Gruber our family will never forget you. You gave my sister hope and years of life to see her son grow up to be a young man. when they gave her 12 months .You gave her 10 years May you Rest In Peace you will forever be in our hearts Family of Deborah LaVecchia
Phyllis Vincent
January 29, 2022
Dr. Gruber I only had about a year with my husband while you were treating him but you were the most gentle and kind doctor. I am so sorry to hear of your passing. May you be resting in God´s loving arms. You were an Angel on earth Dr. Gruber
J Timmons
September 25, 2019
On a whim, I just now looked up my old oncologist and was shocked and saddened to hear of his passing. Dr. Gruber's combination of knowledge and compassion is what helped me get through the horror of my tumor in 2004.
For years, going to see him twice yearly with my MRIs I would tremble while he looked at them, until he said the words "Looks good, Joe," followed by my incredible relief. Then he would give me some tests, including asking me to remember three things: It was ALWAYS "Bridge, taxi, and monkey." I even wrote "bridge, taxi, and monkey" on a 3 x5 card and pulled it out of my pocket when asked, always giving him a good laugh at how predictable he was!
I salute and thank you, Dr. Gruber, for giving me my life back when I thought it was over, some fifteen years ago. The world is a smaller place without you, and my sincerest condolences to your family.
Joe Timmons,
Sarasota, FL,
Retired N.Y.P.D.
,
,
Anthony Ptak and son Aedan in 2014 NDSS
Anthony Ptak
September 11, 2019
Quotes I remember from Dr Michael Gruber,
1. "Correlation does not equal causation."
2. "Let me see you walk."
3. " The bear is in the cave."
4. " If it ain't broke, don't fix it."
-Anthony Ptak
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Mattie Garcia
March 22, 2018
He was an awesome doctor. He treated and took care of my husband, Michael, who had Brain Cancer until he passed away. Continue to rest in peace.
Deborah LaVecchia
December 21, 2017
With Deepestest sympathy to the family of Dr. Gruber he was Amazing Doctor gentle & kind
He gave my sister the means & strength to fight for her life . He will be missed & never forgotten always will be in our hearts ♥
Love Deborah LaVecchia & family
November 20, 2017
We are very sorry to hear this. For 16 years he was my oncologist. My you find comfort in the memories you shared. Nancy and Bob
Doctor Michael Gruber
Anthony Ptak
October 18, 2017
Anthony Ptak
October 18, 2017
Michael Gruber saved my life. I love him for being fearless in his research and patient advocacy. He went above and beyond the oath of Hippocrates. He held my hand and watched me relearn how to walk during my treatment for CNS Lymphoma , he had a swagger and confidence that belied his sharp wit. He demanded the best for and from his patients. I learned from Michael Gruber's steady demeanor and forthright language. No one was a better Neuro oncologist than Dr Gruber. He moved medicine forward with tenacity and insight like no other. Thank you Dr Gruber for being the leader that your legacy is evidenced by. I respect you. I love you like family for your diligence and ardent sensitivity to the world around you. I am not only a brain cancer survivor because of you, I am also a better person having known you. And I will never forget you for this generosity and scientific brilliance. Mission Remission. Sincerely yours,
Anthony Jay Ptak 2017.
Joel & Diane Starr
October 3, 2017
Dr. Gruber was a wonderful person who always made my husband feel so confident that everything was going to be fine and it was. He was a fine human being who made coming to see him a positive experience We are so sad to hear of his passing.
John Farewell
October 1, 2017
Michael was a thoughtful man and a true gentleman. It was a great privilege to have spent time talking with him.
Gary Owens
September 26, 2017
So sorry to hear of this. Mum (Dora) and I send our sincerest condolences to you and yours. Bless you all.
Jimmy Owens
September 26, 2017
God bless Dr. Michael Gruber. We will be forever grateful for having him in our lives. He saved my brother Rodney's life and spent countless hours out of the goodness of his heart to see that Rodney had the best care possible in Moncton NB Canada. Michael never asked anything in return. He gave us at least 11 more years with Rodney. We always enjoyed speaking with Michael and Rodney really appreciated everything that the Gruber family did for him. Michael was a wonderful husband to my dear cousin Maura and wonderful father to Emily. God bless you Michael. We are praying for you and Maura and Emily. You were very aptly named after the Arch Angel Michael. God bless you all from Jimmy, Denise Julia, Daniel and Lauren.
September 21, 2017
I was blessed to have Dr. Gruber as my oncologist for almost 15 years. I looked forward to my appointments. He made a tough time in my life much easier
My condolences to his family!!!
He will be missed by many
May he rest in peace..
Xo
September 18, 2017
Our heartfelt condolences to the family for their irreparable loss. Michael's contributions in the field of medicine will be remembered forever. May his soul rest in peace. Juthika, Sanjeev, Neel & Natasha.
Nicole
September 17, 2017
My sincere condolences to the Gruber Family. May you find comfort in knowing that the God of tender mercies cares for you and can give you the strength you need during this difficult time.
Robert Tevis
September 17, 2017
I am truly sad to hear of Dr. Gruber leaving us. He was a man who accompanied his patients, in their often futile battles, with empathy, tenacity, and good judgment. I lament those future patients who will not have his expertise and experience to support them in their fight. Rest In Peace, Dr.
September 17, 2017
We pray that Michael is resting peacefully. His was a life well lived and loved by many. Heartfelt sympathies from Kim, Mark and Viveca Riley.
September 17, 2017
God Bless you Mike. We met so many years ago and you taught me so much. What you have done during your life time has been truly amazing and helped so many people. Graet memories.
Pamela Gorman Tagliareni
Pat
September 17, 2017
I am so sorry for your loss. May you find comfort and strength by pouring out your deepest emotions to God in prayer. He cares for you and wants to help you. Please accept my condolences.
G. Freeman
September 17, 2017
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Terry Shirley
September 17, 2017
Saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Gruber. I worked for him at the Englewood Office. He will be missed. My deepest sympathy and prayers for his family
Gerson Sigman
September 17, 2017
My family is saddened by the lost of my cousin Mike.
Growing up in south philly my sister Renee and I were close to Mike. Robin, Myself, Jill. Scott and Josh send our prayers and love to the family. Love Gerson
Ken Herrmann
September 16, 2017
I am so saddened, my thoughts and prayers go to the family. Please pass along the details of the memorial service
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