John Charles Gruel

John Charles Gruel, 79, passed away peacefully at his longtime home in Jackson, Michigan on April 22, 2023.

John was born September 22nd, 1943, in Adrian, Michigan to George W. and Helen Gruel. He is survived by his daughter Kristin and her husband Larry Smith, his son Tom and wife Carrie, his two grandchildren Audrey and Ben Gruel, his brother George Gruel, and numerous cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and loving wife Sue.

John graduated from Adrian High School and the University of Michigan. John and Sue were married in 1965 and then spent 57 wonderful years together.  

After graduating from U of M with undergraduate and graduate degrees, he began his professional career in public accounting in 1968 working for the accounting firm Ernst and Ernst.  John and Sue settled in Jackson, MI. At Ernst and Ernst John met Robert (Bob) Puckey. The two became great friends and eventually partners in their own public accounting firm in Jackson for nearly 50 years. John “retired” a few years ago, but he loved his work and still helped clients today.

As a community leader, he was active with several charities and projects in both Jackson and Adrian. In recent years he focused his energy on the Jackson Community Foundation and Canopy Walk project at Hidden Lake Gardens. He was so excited to see the Canopy Walk project near its completion.

As most know he was an adventurous person and loved to travel the country and the world with his wife Sue and friends and family. There are too many places to name. He loved nature and exploring. He loved being on the water and summers at Round and Devils Lake with family and friends. He also had a passion for music, especially seeing live shows. He lived life to the fullest and enjoyed every single day he was with us. He always had a smile on his face and no day was wasted.

The Family is holding a private service in Jackson on May 1st.  There will be a Celebration of Life Open House from 1pm to 4pm, Sunday June 4th, at John and Sue’s longtime Jackson home.     

In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to:

Jackson Community Foundation - www.jacksoncf.org

Hidden Lake Gardens Canopy Walk Project- giving to https://givingto.msu.edu/gift/?sid=12826                    

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John Charles Gruel, please visit our floral store.