John H. Gruber

John Henry Gruber passed away at Parkview Medical Center in Pueblo, Colorado on May 1, 2026, after a long illness. He was born on October 29, 1956 in Lamar, Colorado to George Wesley Gruber, Jr. and Norma Lou (Davis) Gruber. 

He was preceded in death by his mother, Norma Davis and his father, George Gruber.

John is survived by his step-mother, Donna (George) Gruber; his ex-wife, Tracie (Entenmen) Gruber , and their children Levi Jacob Gruber, Laramie Joseph Gruber, and Lukas Jackson Gruber and his daughter with Kimberly Foster, Melody Vydal Gruber; brother, Jay Davis Gruber (Karen Moreno); sister, Joy Ann (Gruber) Jones (David); nephews, Elvis (Kimberly) Cunningham, Chris (Sheila) Cunningham, and Nic Cunningham; niece, Kelley Davis Hall (Stephen); as well as numerous grand nephews and nieces. 

John was a talented musician and played guitar in many bands in the area over the years. Many thought him to be the best guitar player in the Arkansas Valley. He continues his legacy through his boys and nephews whom he taught to play guitar.

John was also a master carpenter and builder. His handiwork is displayed in the woodwork of the lower level of the Town Square Mall building in La Junta, the former Chiramonte's, and Jodi's restaurants.  He was also the local specialist for siding, Soffit and Facia systems and brought in the areas first Seamless Gutter Business. 

John had a way with dogs. His loyal companions would follow his commands without question.  He could enter a grocery store and his dog would remain outside at the door until his return, then jump in the back of his pickup and ride home staying there until John called them to the house. 

John loved riding his Harley motorcycle. He was often seen with one of his boys on the back going for a joy ride, or out to breakfast or lunch. Tracie and John enjoyed several trips to Sturgis on his Harley. 

 A memorial to celebrate John's life will be held at a later date. 

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