Richard Grunert

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Richard Grunert, 88, of Naples FL on Dec 15,2024, at his home. A Celebration of Life will be held at Vanderbilt Presbyterian Church, 1225 Piper Blvd, Naples, FL on Jan 18, 2025, at noon, with the Reverend Rob Morrow officiating.
Richard was born in Chicago, IL to Kurt and Anna Grellner Grunert on April 27, 1936. He went to St Rita high school and graduated in 1954. He joined the US Army and served as a tank serviceman in Schweinfurt, Germany. After returning to America, he earned a degree in engineering and worked for Continental Can Company for 23 years. He worked at other companies until retirement at age 58.
At the age of 22, he suffered a diving accident that broke his neck. After a newly discovered treatment/operation and intense physical therapy, he was able to walk after 18 months of total paralysis. He fought hard all his life to stay active, travel, bike, hike, fish, raft the Snake River, and stayed active in his families lives. His last 15 years were spent in a wheelchair/scooter but still taking care of himself. He had a great love for helping others and volunteered with many organizations. He worked with the Salvation Army in Illinois, Iowa and Naples, Florida for 33 years. He was a layman chaplain at the local hospital and his church. He was a mentor for other quadriplegics through a VA program. He was most proud of finding donations to send over 1,050 kids to Christian Salvation Army camps over the years. He had a true love for God and Jesus and tried to serve others in any way he was able.
He is survived by his loving daughter Sharon (Rudy) Haverkamp of Eddyville, KY. Granddaughters Erica (JR) Bangit of Wesley Chapel, FL, and Laura Madlangbayan of Riverview, FL. Great-grandkids, Averie, Bennett and Carter Bangit and Benny Madlangbayan. Sisters-in-law Diane Grunert and Doris (Phil) Barrett. Many loving nieces and nephews. Ex-wife Christa Grunert of Illinios, and his loving caretaker Leticia Lima, who took wonderful care of him the last 6 years. He is peceded in death by his parents Kurt and Anne Grunert, his brother Herb Grunert, his ex-wife Patricia Grunert Dotts, his ex-wife Lee Gilmore Grunert, stepdaughter Julie Grunert and loving partner Marlene Heeman of Naples, FL. He was a beloved father, grandfather and friend who will be missed by many. He had a difficult life with many ups and downs, but his faith always kept him going.
His memory will be an inspiration for all of us. I can hear him say, "Don't be sad, for I will be dancing in heaven with my Lord and Savior". Amen.