Charles R. "Dick" Gruber

Charles R. Dick Gruber

Charles Richard "Dick" Gruber, age 84, passed away on April 17, 2025, in Abilene, Texas. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Dick's life was marked by dedication to family, a passion for sports and the outdoors, and a legacy of leadership and love.

Born on July 7, 1940, in El Paso, Texas, Dick grew up with strong roots in the Southwest. He graduated from Eunice High School in Eunice, New Mexico, where his early love for athletics began to take shape. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Education from the University of Texas El Paso and was a proud member of the UTEP (then Texas Western) football team-an experience that would shape his lifelong commitment to coaching and mentorship of young athletes.

Dick devoted much of his professional life to shaping young athletes as a high school head football coach in both New Mexico and Texas. His leadership on the field inspired countless students over the years. Later in life, he transitioned into a successful career as an insurance executive in Oklahoma City, where he continued to demonstrate integrity and dedication in all he pursued.

He shared more than 65 years of marriage with his beloved wife and best friend Carolyn Ann Gruber. Together they built a loving home filled with warmth and support. Dick was a devoted father to Michael Gruber and his wife Danita Gruber; Sherri Gruber; and Terri Gruber. His pride extended to his granddaughter Marissa Korth and her husband Konrad Korth, as well as his great-grandchildren Kyler Korth and Kamryn Korth. He also leaves behind In Laws Richard and Lacye Hutton, Millie "Mid" Gruber, and Sandy Gruber. He also leaves behind numerous nephews, nieces and cousins who cherished their time with him.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents Harry and June Gruber; his brothers Harry Gruber and Tommy Gruber; his in-laws Paul and "Did" Hutton; and niece Alisha Johnson.

Outside of work and family life, Dick found joy in golf, hunting, fishing, travel, and woodworking. Whether casting a line or crafting something with his hands, he embraced each hobby with enthusiasm. These passions brought him peace and connection with nature-and often served as opportunities to bond with those he loved.

A man of quiet strength and enduring values, Dick's legacy lives on through the lessons he taught by example: perseverance, kindness, humility, and unwavering love for family. In our hearts you will always stay-loved and remembered every day.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him. What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose-you gave us everything, and now we carry your wisdom in our hearts forever grateful for the life you shared with us.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Friday April 25,2025 at The Hamil Family Funeral Home Chapel located at 6449 Buffalo Gap Road.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, April 25, 2025, at The Hamil Family Funeral Home Chapel, with Mr. Neal Alexander officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes donations in memory be given to: 

Shady Oaks Recreation Association

3542 County Road 268 West

Baird, Texas  79504