Obituary: Harold M. Gruver

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Harold M. Gruver

Port Townsend, Wash.

Aug. 22, 1927 – Feb. 10, 2017

Harold Gruver passed away Feb. 10, 2017 at Jefferson Healthcare in Port Townsend, Wash. surrounded by his family and pastor. Three days later at a private graveside service in Quilcene, he was laid to rest beside his of wife of 59 years, Raeona.

Harold was born in Renton to George Gruver and Adeline Scherlippens. He spent most of his nearly 90 years on the Olympic Peninsula. True to his nature, Harold gathered his family in his final days, making us laugh (often with quite colorful jokes and stories), and helping us remember how to live with integrity and generosity. Harold was the epitome of the “Greatest Generation.” He adored his family, supported his community, defended his country, and loved his Lord.

From his service in the Navy on the USS Midway during WWII, to his work at the Port Townsend paper mill, to building family homes, to his career with State Farm, and throughout his many travels, adventures, and wood-working projects, he was always ready to help a friend (or stranger) in need and showed up to his life with determination, loyalty, and a humorous heart.

Harold received dignified, empathetic care at the end of his life. Pastor Tony Brown steadily shepherded Harold as he moved on to be with God, and Dr. Tracie Harris and Dr. Matt Crowell and their medical team navigated our family through his passing with as much tenderness as they bestowed on him. While Harold is deeply missed, his spirit brings us great peace. He made friends all throughout his life and he will forever be loved by those he left behind.

He is survived by his children Ray Gruver and Cindy McNeil and their spouses; his second wife, Patty Miller and step-children Betsy Jones and David Miller; sister Myrt Lammers; four grandchildren Megan, Katie, Dylan, and Ashley; three great-grandchildren, as well as many dear extended family members and friends.

A memorial service will be held on Feb. 26, 2017 at 1 p.m. At the Trinity United Methodist Church, 609 Taylor Street, Port Townsend. All are invited. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be sent to the Trinity United Methodist Church.