Henry Gruver

Henry Gruver, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully March 17, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, adventure, and dedication. Born in Great Bend, Kansas. Henry’s journey through life was a testament to hard work, passion, and an indomitable spirit. Raised in oil company homes, Henry was deeply connected to his family’s roots in the oil industry. His grandfather and father both worked in the business, and Henry spent summers working on rigs, gaining experience that shaped his future career. He graduated from High School in Rangely, CO. in1953.

In 1957 he graduated from Colorado School of Mines as a Petroleum Engineer and began his professional journey with Pan American Petroleum, serving in Sweetwater and Monahans, Texas.

Henry’s drive for knowledge led him to Harvard Business School, where he earned his MBA in 1964. His careen in the oil industry took him to Lubbock and Fort Worth, Texas; Paris, France for a year; Dallas, Texas, Pampa, Texas; and Charleston, West Virginia for 10 years as Vice Pres. Of Cabot Corp. He ended his career as Pres. Of Cordova Resources in Dallas.

Beyond his professional life, Henry’s life was a celebration of the outdoors and family. A dedicated mountaineer, his goal was to climb the 100 highest peaks in Colorado. He reached 98 of the peaks, including all of the Fourteeners with Janet. Together they also hiked the challenging Haute Route. Henry enjoyed skiing, tennis, and lively family gatherings. He also found joy in sports cars and investing, a pursuit he began in 1953.

Henry is survived by his wife, Janet (Jan), his children, Laurel Peters (husband Dave Peters) and Gary Gruver (wife Carolyn) and his grandchildren: Alex Peters, Carley Gruver (husband Everett Warner), and Megan Gruver (husband Ross Baker). He also leaves behind many close nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his son, Steve Gruver, daughter-in-law Julia, and their three daughters—Amanda, Sarah, and Elizabeth—whose tragic loss in 2002 deeply affected the family but also strengthened their bond.

Henry’s life was one of purpose, adventure, and love. His legacy of resilence, curiosity, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew him and admired his witty “one liners”! He will be profoundly missed.