Connor E. Gruver

Connor was born on July 23, 1999, in Marianna, Florida, and was raised in the backwoods of Grand Ridge. From an early age, he developed a strong sense of individuality and a love for life's simple yet powerful joys. He was known for his passion for heavy metal music and his appreciation for his guns, both of which reflected his bold spirit and fearless nature.
Connor lived his life with a boundless energy and an open heart. Whatever he set his mind to, he approached with enthusiasm, courage, and an unmistakable authenticity. To know Connor was to witness someone who did everything "wide open" - fully, honestly, and without hesitation.
When his daughter, Mallory, came into his life, she became his greatest joy and the center of his world. Connor often said that her arrival made him feel as though he had won a million dollars. His love for her was immeasurable and unwavering from the moment he learned of her existence. The love he had for not only his daughter but the love he had for his wife was unconditional. Connor never loved anyone as much as he loved Hailey and Mallory. They brought Connor so much joy, when he looked at Hailey, he saw nothing but the universe. His favorite thing to say to Hailey was "ich liebe dich" which is I love you in German. She brought so much joy to his life. Connor couldn't always put into words how much he loved Hailey so when he couldn't he would play Stone Sour: Song #3, that was their song. She was truly the light in his darkness, wherever Connor was Hailey was. Connor has never loved someone as much as his did his wife Hailey and his daughter Mallory.
Connor's life was defined by love - love for his family, his friends, and the life he built. He leaves behind a legacy of strength, devotion, and wholehearted living. His spirit will be remembered not only in the stories shared today but in the lasting impact he made on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Connor was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, John D. Gruver and Shirley Furnier and his uncle Kevin Robinson. He is survived by his loving wife, Hailey Mickel Gruver; precious daughter and "apple of his eye", Mallory Charlotte Gruver; his devoted mother and father, Tina Robinson Gruver and David E. Gruver; one sister, Sherry Lynn McDonald; one brother, Aaron Mazzarese; maternal grandparents, Betty and Nelson Allen and Clinton and Ann Robinson; grandparents in law, John and Wanda Mickel, as well as two sisters in law, Alexis and Jordan Mickel.
Though his time here was far too short, the light he brought to those around him will continue to shine brightly. Connor lived fully, loved deeply, and will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him most.
A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025 beginning at 12:00 PM Central Time in the chapel of McAlpin Funeral Home with Rev. Gary Gable officiating. Connor's family will receive friends for visitation one hour prior to the funeral service. Interment will immediately follow in Shady Grove Cemetery.
Serving as pallbearers are Aaron Mazzarese, John Mahaffey, Vincent Miller, Michael Walden, Rian Jarvis and Caleb Barnes.