Bradley Jay Gruber

Bradley Jay Gruber, Age 71 of Marion, OH passed away on July 14, 2025, at Marion General Hospital due to complications from a prolonged battle with Diabetes.

Brad was born on November 7, 1953, in Marion to Charles Gruber Sr. and Phyllis (Benson) Gruber. Brad was a proud 1972 Graduate of Marion Harding High School, frequently boasting his class as the largest graduating class in school history. He frequently spoke fondly of his childhood, growing up and playing sports with neighborhood friends on Lilac Lane.

Brad worked in varying fields throughout his life which included Erie Lackawanna Railroad, Star Lanes, the Marion and Mt. Vernon Moose Lodges, Lifelink Community Church and most recently, the fuel center at Kroger South in Marion. He was a life-long member of the Moose Lodge, serving as administrator of both Marion and Mt. Vernon Lodges and attaining Pilgrim Status in 2007.

An accomplished left-handed bowler, Brad compiled multiple perfect games and two 800 series in the course of his bowling career which was cut short due to injury. He was inducted into the Marion County Bowling Hall of Fame in 1998.

Brad will also be remembered for his love of New York Yankees baseball, rarely missing a game on the TV or radio. He was also an Ohio State fan and closely followed Marion Harding athletics.

The greatest source of pride for Brad was his family. He very much enjoyed family gatherings held on holidays and special occasions where he would captivate the room with his wit, charm, and humor. These are the characteristics that most will continue to remember, well after his passing.

Brad was preceded in death by his mother Phyllis, and father, Charles, as well as his brother, Charles Gruber Junior. Brad is survived by his sister, Lori Gruber and brother Joe (Wendi) Gruber and sister-in-law Becki Gruber. He is also survived by his son, Bradley J. Gruber II (B.J. and Jennifer) and his daughter, Andrea Gruber (Joel Kerlin).

Additionally, Brad leaves behind six grandchildren, Lauren (Doug) Isaly, Jace Withrow, Braden Gruber, K.C. Gruber, Kynleigh Howard and Finn Risner, as well as 3 great-grandsons and numerous nieces and nephews.

Final arrangements are being handled by Affordable Cremation Services of Marion. A Celebration of Life event will be held at Cooper’s Bowl, 191 Barks Rd. W, Marion, OH on Sunday August 3, 2025, from 2-5 pm.

Memorial contributions can be made in Brad’s name to the Marion Harding Athletic Boosters Fund.