Obituary: Michael C. “Mike” Gruben

Obituary was published and funeral arrangements were entrusted to the care and direction of the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory​.

Michael C. “Mike” Gruben

Michael C. “Mike” Gruben passed away on August 5, 2026, after a short, but hard fought battle against cancer. He was 59 years old. Mike was born on December 8, 1966, in Joliet, IL to Bruce P. Gruben and Claudette “Jean” Gruben (nee Paris). He was raised in Plainfield, IL. He was a member of Local 75 union and worked as a proud concrete laborer for 31 years.

Mike was truly a one of a kind individual that embodied the spirit of hard work and having a good time. Despite his grumpy demeanor, he had a heart of gold and was always willing to help those in need. He held a strong love for loud music and was a talented drummer and guitarist. He was an avid sports fan of the Chicago Bears, White Sox, and Blackhawks and enjoyed many games by passionately yelling at the TV. He enjoyed fishing, playing horseshoes, sitting outside, and spending time with his family. He will forever be remembered wearing his favorite ensemble of sweatpants, sunglasses, and skull cap with a Marlboro in his mouth and an ice cold beer in his hand.

Mike left this world peacefully with his family by his side. He leaves behind his loving wife, Janet (nee Lambert), with whom he shared 35 beautiful years of marriage. He is also survived by his siblings, Tom Gruben, Bruce (Missy) Gruben, and Meredith (Dave) Avery; and his dear friends Larry Pottorff and Johnny Zawistowski. His legacy will live on in his children, Jenna (Patrick) Heikkila, Kaleigh Gruben, Hannah Gruben, and Michael Gruben. He was an adored Grumpa to his grandson, Wesley Heikkila. He will be fondly remembered by numerous aunts, uncles, in-laws, nephews, nieces, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents and close friend Perry Gilbertson.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Mike’s name can be made to a charity of your choice.

We would like to thank the many healthcare professionals that assisted Mike during his battle and aided him in his final months.

A Memorial Gathering will be held for Mike Gruben on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at St. Mary Nativity Catholic Church, 706 N. Broadway St. in Joliet, from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. Inurnment will follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Joliet. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at the Croatian Club, 1503 Clement St. in Joliet, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. It would be a loving tribute to Mike to please wear your favorite band or Chicago sports shirt, but we respectfully ask that no Cubs apparel is present.

For more information, please call 815-741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com, where you can share a favorite memory or leave a condolence.

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