Alice Gruner

Alice Ruth Gruner, age 92, of Jefferson City, Mo., passed away on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at Stonebridge Adams Street.

She was born on April 25, 1933, in Bismarck, Missouri, to the late Otto and Mattie (Zapf) West. On May 11, 1952, in her hometown of Bismarck, she was united in marriage to Bob L. Gruner. Together they built a life rooted in love and devotion, welcoming three children and creating a home filled with cherished memories. They shared 54 wonderful years of marriage before his passing in 2006.

Alice served her community as the office assistant at First United Methodist Church, a role that reflected both her strong work ethic and her deep faith. Alice dedicated many years of faithful service to the Department of Revenue, where she worked in accounting until her retirement.

She found her greatest joy in nurturing both her garden and her family. From neat rows of fresh vegetables to vibrant beds of tulips, daffodils, iris, roses, and carefully tended African violets, she cultivated beauty wherever she planted herself. An avid reader of Christian-based books and a loyal sports fan, she rarely missed cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals or attending games as a devoted season ticketholder for Missouri Tigers men's basketball. Her home reflected her warmth and personality, from her cherished collection of Hummels and bells to a kitchen that was always filled with the aroma of something sweet baking. Known especially for her cakes, pies, and cookies, she lovingly made everyone's favorite treats in generous batches-chocolate chip, snickerdoodle, and oatmeal raisin among them. The holidays brought beautiful arrangements of baked goods, shared freely with those she loved.

Family was at the heart of all she did. She was unwavering in her support of her children, faithfully driving them to activities and proudly attending every event. She treasured traveling across the country to visit her grandchildren and created lasting memories, including Christmases spent together at the beach that her family will forever hold dear. Deeply devoted to her husband, she shared with him a steadfast faith and active involvement at First United Methodist Church, where together they helped found the church's food pantry. Her faith was a pillar throughout her life, first expressed as a young organist and pianist at Bismarck Methodist Church. She will be remembered as a loving and supportive wife, mother, grandmother, and aunt-happy, organized, deeply involved in the lives of those around her, and a steady example of devotion, generosity, and grace.

Survivors include her three children, Susan Dienhart of Venice, Fl., Gregory Gruner and Eric Gruner, both of Mobile, Al.; five grandchildren, Jason Dienhart (fiancée, Chelsea Beck), Ashley Givens (Caleb), Corinna Simon, Leah Giles, Jesse Walsh; seven great grandchildren including Everett and Amelia Givens; one niece, Tara Snellen (Jason); one nephew, Michael West; four great nephews and one great niece.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother and his spouse, Albert West (Lou); one daughter-in-law, Kathy Gruner; and one sister-in-law, Bonita Hall.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 am until 11:00 am, Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Freeman Mortuary, 915 Madison St., Jefferson City, Mo., 65101.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 am, Saturday February 28, 2026, at the Freeman Chapel with the Reverend Trevor Dancer officiating. Interment will follow at Hawthorn Memorial Gardens.

A webcast of the funeral service will begin at 11:00 am, for friends that are not able to attend by going to her memorial page on Freeman Mortuary's website.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to First United Methodist Church, 201 Monroe St., Jefferson City, Mo., 65101.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary.