Robert Peter Gruber

Robert Peter Gruber, age 95, of Crossville, Tennessee, passed away at his home on October 23, 2026.

Robert was born on December 29, 1930 in Kenosha, Wisconsin, son of the late Anton Michael Gruber and Rose Mary (Stanke) Gruber.

He is survived by his wife, Eugenia Gruber; children Anthony Gruber, Donald Gruber (Becky), Joseph Gruber (Dawn), Edward Gruber, Deborah Siltala (Mike), Joan Brevitz (Larry), Marianne Frost (Stephen), Annette Wilder (Daniel Bellessa); 11 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren, 1 great great granddaughter; sisters, Rosemary Capodarco and Diane Gruber.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his daughter, Patricia Gribben (Jim); great grandson, Alex Siltala; sister, Elizabeth Johnson.

Robert was an active and dedicated member of his community, participating in several organizations, including the Crossville Carving Club, the Fairfield Glade Lions Club, and Chapter #297 of the Plateau Korean War Veterans Association (KWVA). He was also an active member of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, where he found fellowship and spiritual connection. Through his community involvement and church, he built meaningful relationships and enjoyed serving and connecting with others.

He proudly served in the United States Air Force as a communications specialist in Korea. Following his military service, he built a long and successful career with Snap-on Tools, where he worked for 33 years before retiring as a plant manager in 1993. His dedication, hard work, and commitment to his profession were hallmarks of his career.

Outside of work and community service, he enjoyed fishing, golfing, carving, traveling, telling tales to the great grandchildren and was a lifelong Packers fan. He was also an avid musician who found great joy in music. Whether serving his community, spending time with friends, enjoying his hobbies, or sharing his love of music, he embraced life with enthusiasm and dedication.

A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Francis of Assisi in Fairfield Glade, TN on November 12 at 10 AM.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to; St. Francis of Assisi, 7503 Peavine Rd. Fairfield Glade, TN 38558 or Cumberland County Habitat for Humanity, 325 McLarty Ln, Crossville TN 38555.

Arrangements and Care provided by Bilbrey Funeral Home and Cremation Service.