John W. "Jack" Gruender

1937 - 2018

Gruender, John W. Jack passed away, November 8, 2018. He was born September 1, 1937 in St. Louis, a son of the late Hans and Marie (Leonhardt) Gruender. He served 9 years as a Sergeant in the US Army Reserve. John earned his Master's in Educational Specialist in Education Administration. He was a Principal for many years in the Hazelwood School District. John was also a long time member of Lambda Beta Lambda Fraternity and Kiwanis International. John was a faithful Christian, beloved husband, father, PaPa, brother, uncle, colleague, and friend to all who knew him. John turned any involvement into a commitment that left his family, organizations, and many people better for his being there. His wisdom, humor, integrity, character, compassion and humility will be missed and long remembered. Survivors include his wife Shirley; a son John D. Gruender and wife Trish and their children Jared, Kylie and Kailyn, son Jeff Gruender and wife Peggy and their children Jenna, Jack and Max, and daughter Julie Watson and husband Tom and their children Kent, Kyle, Erica and Elizabeth. John was preceded in death by his brother Leonard Gruender and sister Elaine Hilderbrand. Services: Funeral service at the Schrader Funeral Home and Crematory, 14960 Manchester Road, Ballwin, Tuesday, 11:30 a.m. Interment Bellerive Gardens. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Covenant Community Church, 1351 Shepley Drive, St. Louis MO 63137. Visitation Monday, 4-8 p.m. Friends may sign the family's on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.