Lu Ann Gruber, age 84, of Manitowoc passed away Tuesday, September 15, 2026 in Manitowoc.
Lu Ann was born December 26, 1941 in Manitowoc, daughter of the late Quirn and Elanor (Kocian) Wachal. She was united in marriage to Norbert Gruber on November 21, 1959 in Elcho. He preceded her in death on May 15, 2025.
Lu Ann was a devoted and dedicated wife and mother and took pride in raising their family. She was an avid Packer fan, enjoyed taking bus trips, cooking, baking, and her sweet cat, Molly. Throughout the years, Lu Ann took care of many neighborhood children, she found joy in being able to watch them grow and start to have families of their own.
Survivors include her children: James Gruber, Francis Creek; Linda (Scott) Witczak, Town of Kossuth; Richard (Lori) Gruber, Town of Kossuth; three grandchildren: Kayla Witczak, Dillion Witczak (special friend Kailee) and Tyler Gruber (partner Justin Weber); four great grandchildren: Aria, Josie, Jade and Cashton; as well as other relatives and friends. Lu Ann was preceded in death by her parents Quirn & Elanor Wachal, her husband Norbert Gruber, a brother and sister-in-law Wayne & Audrey Wachal and an infant brother Jerry Wachal.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, October 3, 2026 at Reinbold & Pfeffer Funeral Home, 1124 Main St. Kellnersville, with Rev. Dave Pleier officiating. Relatives and friends may greet the family at the funeral home on Saturday, October 3, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 11:00 a.m. Lu Ann will be laid to rest at St. Anne Catholic Cemetery in Francis Creek.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family by visiting www.lakeshorefuneralhomes.com
The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff of Aurora at Home Hospice, especially Tricia, for the care, compassion, and support given to Lu Ann and her family.
The Lakeshore Family Funeral Homes, Reinbold & Pfeffer funeral home of Kellnersville, is assisting the Gruber family with funeral arrangements.
