John M. Gruber

John M. Gruber, age 64, passed away in South Bend, Indiana, on October 16, 2025. Born on September 12, 1961, in South Bend, he was the son of the late John S. Gruber Jr. and Nancy (Leavens) Gruber.

John was a proud graduate of Marian High School in Mishawaka, Indiana. He will be remembered for his quiet strength, determination and the legacy he leaves behind.

John’s professional journey began at his family’s business, Gruber’s Supermarket, where he first learned the value of hard work and community. He later joined AC Rich & Co in South Bend, continuing to build his experience. Driven by a sense of service, John became a South Bend firefighter, dedicating himself to protecting others. For nearly a decade, he also served as a custodian at St. Joseph High School, quietly supporting the school’s daily life.

At the same time, John took on a role in the housekeeping department at the Morris Inn, on the campus of the University of Notre Dame. His dedication and leadership led to a manager role and was eventually appointed Operations Coordinator, managing the Inn’s daily rhythm of inventory, ordering and storing needs.

John never met a stranger—his warm smile and subtle wit made everyone feel instantly at ease. He had a knack for clever remarks, always pausing just long enough for your chuckle before flashing a grin, delighted that he’d brightened your day. Thoughtful and kind, John led with humility and respect.

Fatherhood was at the heart of who John was—he wouldn’t have felt complete without it. He is survived by his daughters Christine (Scott), Kourtni Wolfe, Bryleigh (Yuriy) Melnik, Mallorie Gruber, and Aubree (Tyler) Binkley, and his sons Jacob (Nicole) Gruber, Braxten (Ally) Gruber, Caleb Gruber, Zachariah Gruber, and Nathan Gruber. His legacy continues through his 14 grandchildren: Mariah, Isaac, Thomas, Heidi, Caroline, Benjamin, Holden, Bohdi, Joella, Cohen, Beckham, Milana, Augustine, and Kahlia.

John treasured time with his children—sharing meals he’d prepared, playing games, watching movies, or roasting s’mores by the fire. He especially loved spontaneous walks to the park or across Notre Dame’s campus, soaking in nature with them by his side.

John is also survived by his sisters Susan (Gary) Mason of South Bend, Judy Gruber of Indianapolis, his sister-friend Bonnie Knapp-Wild, and brother Michael (Regena) Gruber of Paoli, Indiana. His extended family includes five nieces, a nephew, six great-nieces, and six great-nephews.

On Sunday, November 23rd at 6:45 pm join with family in praying the daily community rosary at the Grotto on the campus of Notre Dame.

Visitation will be held Monday, November 24th from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm at Our Lady of Hungary Church, 829 W. Calvert St, South Bend, Indiana 46613. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:00 pm at Our Lady of Hungary Church. Burial at Sacred Heart Cemetery will occur immediately following the mass.

In lieu of flowers and in honor of John's compassionate spirit, memorial contributions may be made to the Center for the Homeless, 813 S. Michigan St., South Bend, IN 46601 or online at cfh.net or the Food Bank of Northern Indiana, 702 Chapin St., South Bend, IN 46601 or online at feedindiana.org.  Zahoran Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.  To leave an online condolence please visit zahoran.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John M. Gruber, please visit our floral store.