Thomas N. Grutsch

Thomas N. Grutsch, 69, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love and service. Born on December 30, 1954, in Charlevoix, Michigan, to Henry and Marian Grutsch, Tom spent his early years embracing the values of hard work and community as a farm boy and a young member of the Michigan State Grange.

A proud graduate of East Jordan High School in 1973, Tom went on to serve his country with distinction in the United States Navy from 1974 to 1978. He was stationed on the USS Alexander Hamilton submarine, where he developed a lifelong passion for naval life and camaraderie.

On June 24, 1977, Tom married the love of his life, Sally Darlene Brooks, at the East Jordan United Methodist Church. Together, they built a family filled with love and laughter, raising four remarkable children, Seth, Shawn, Rebekah, and Alexander. Tom's dedication to family was recognized in 1998 when he was named East Jordan's Father of the Year.

Tom was deeply involved in the Boy Scouts of America, serving as Head Scout Master in East Jordan, where all three of his sons achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. His exceptional service was honored with the Silver Beaver Award, the highest recognition for being a volunteer leader in the local council.

A man of many talents, Tom was a master pattern maker for EJIW and an artist with a passion for woodworking. He cherished his yellow Camaro, attending Joan Jett concerts, and sharing his knowledge with others. Above all, Tom was known for his generosity and unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of those around him.

Tom is survived by his four children, Seth Grutsch of Gaylord, Shawn (Lisa) Grutsch of Gaylord, Rebekah (Michael) Hunt of Cheboygan, and Alexander Grutsch of Gaylord; grandchildren, Gideon, Liam, Ellie, Josiah and Micah, as well as several special “bonus” grandchildren he loved as his own. Also surviving are his sisters, Claudia (Kent) Libbey and Nancy Taylor; his sister-in-law, Ginny (Brad) Petrie; brother-in-law, Fred (Cindy) Brooks, and many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, Sally Brooks Grutsch; his parents, Henry and Marian Grutsch; and his in laws Bill and Jacqueline Brooks. 

His memory will forever be a guiding light for his family and all who knew him.

Funeral services will take place 12:00 PM Friday, December 13, 2024, at Gaylord E Free Church, where the family will visit with friends beginning at 10:00 AM. Pastor Scott Distler will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Veterans Inc, P.O. Box 1063, Gaylord MI 49734. 

Please share your memories and personal messages with the family on his guestbook below.