Paul Edward Gruetzman was born on July 24, 1955 to Carl and Shirley (Wright) Gruetzman, and passed into eternal life on December 26, 2023. He graduated from Parker High School, and from there did an apprenticeship as a tool and die maker. He worked skillfully for many years in manufacturing, until retiring in 2019, as a night supervisor at Reliable in Liberty, SC. He married his wife of 46 years, Jan, on May 7, 1977 at First Lutheran Church in Janesville, WI.
Paul had a brilliant and curious mind, with a boundless and generous heart. He was endlessly devoted to his family, his friends, and community. Paul gave deeply of himself, donating blood regularly and upon his death, an organ donor. Now, ever, and always – a shining beacon of a husband, father, and human being.
In his youth, he was an avid drummer, member of the Rock Aqua Jays Ski Club, and an absolute menace to his sisters (mostly Lisa). All his life, Paul was a jack of all trades. He was also often a jokester – goofy and silly, with an irreverent wit. He held a great love of music, the ocean, the mountains, boating, skiing, cars, hiking, fixing, and tinkering.
He loved living in the Smoky Mountains, until returning to Wisconsin to enjoy retirement closer to family and the beauty of northern Wisconsin. He is survived by his wife, Janet (Miller) Gruetzman, his sons Jacob Gruetzman and Andrew Gruetzman, his sisters Susan (Terry) Sullivan of Janesville, WI and Lisa Westby, of Morrisville, NC, and many beloved nieces and nephews. He will always be loved and missed, forever now in memory eternal.
There will be no formal services, per Paul’s final wishes.
2nd Timothy 4:7-8
I have fought a good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me – the crown of righteousness that the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on that great day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his glorious return.
I had known Paul since 7th grade at Franklin Junior high. He was my other brother, sharing our life’s up and downs. I could always count on his humor to put a smile on my face. I will miss his knowledge, joking, and strength to overcome anything, he leaves an empty space in my life. To his family Jan, Jacob and Andrew he was one of a kind a good man, honest, truthful.
total Gruetzman through and through. Uncle Carl and Aunt Shirley are waiting. Total goof of the family right under your Dad. Two peas same pod they were. Nothing less than a constant smile. Our family is small but the love has always been. Paul leaves a whole in our hearts but also memories of great times. Prayers to Jan Jacob Andy and everyone that loved Paul. Your lives are better because he touched your heart
Paul was my best man he helped me get my first tool room job in Fort Atkinson where I lived got forty two years. He was my brother in law, peer and friend. I literally owe him my start in life from uncertain beginnings. I’ll miss his witty little jabs and way of lighting up your day with his humor. The last thing he said to me was Merry Christmas I love you. A big part of my soul is Paul E. Gruetzman.
We are so very, very sorry!! Paul was just a wonderful man, neighbor and friend , as you both were. We are keeping you and the family in our thoughts and fervent prayers 🙏❤️
Very sorry to hear of Paul’s passing. Eternal rest grant to him, Lord. Sorry to his family.
I knew Paul since the early 60s as a friend and neighbor a block away. Many great memories for sure. My prayers to his family and loved ones.
RIP Paul 🙏we will all miss you♥️
So many memories of fun in the 70s. You will be missed. So sorry for the families loss. Hugs and prayers.
A beautiful soul – he will be missed. Jan, we hold most special memories of our time on the boat with you and Paul.
So sorry for your families loss.