Joan Barbara Gruber (Marz), a cherished resident of Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, passed away on April 9, 2025, at the age of 93. She was the beloved wife of William J. Gruber and the heart and soul of her family. Joan was a devoted mother to Richard (Jane), Barbara, Cheryl (David), Jeffrey (Tracey), and Julie. She took immense pride in being a grandmother to Steven, Robert, Nicholas, Bradley, Brandon, Jason, Jessica, Justin, Angela, Melissa, and Larry, and a joyful great-grandmother to Mason, Owen, Matthew, Maxwell, Leah, Cameron, and the late Maxwell. She is also survived by her sister, Mary Ann Neeld (John, who passed in January 2025), and her brother, Frank Marz (deceased), and a close cousin Sharon Kapps (John deceased) along with numerous other relatives and friends.

Joan spent her formative years playing the piano and forging lifelong friendships at Saint Mary’s Academy, an all-girls school in West Allis, Wisconsin. It was there that she met Bill Gruber on a blind date, which blossomed into a remarkable 74-year marriage.

Every summer, Joan found great joy and tranquility during their summer vacation in Eagle River, Wisconsin, on the chain of lakes. She loved hosting family and friends, always preparing a delightful spread for everyone. She cherished watching the children learn to ski and enjoyed evenings around the campfire. Joan was an exceptional homemaker, known for her culinary skills, and she consistently provided homemade meals for her family each night. These were among her many strengths.

A graceful and elegant woman, Joan had a unique ability to see the best in others. Her presence was a true blessing, and her memory will forever reside in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

A visitation will be held at 12 noon, followed by a memorial service at 1 PM on Friday, April 25, at Schmidt and Bartelt Funeral Home in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Saint James Catholic Church are appreciated.

The family expresses their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Froedtert Hospital in Menomonee Falls for their compassionate care.