Russell Jay Gruchow was born on September 10th, 1950. He passed away on July 3rd, 2026 at the age of 75. A loving father, an industrious laborer, and a dedicated coach; he loved his family, his work, and the game of football deeply. Though Russell was soft spoken, he was the hardest working man wherever he went. He graduated from Forest Hills High School in 1969. He worked at Steelcase for over 20 years and retired from the Saint Louis School District. The world was richer when his kind eyes, infectious smile, and quiet resolve were still here.

Russ was the son of Glenn and Lucile Gruchow. He was a devoted brother to his sister, Karen Bryars and his brothers, Brad and Scott Gruchow. He is survived by his son, Zachary, who will carry forth the lessons of determination and dedication that his father taught him.

Funeral services will be held at 11 am on Friday, July 17, 2026 at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 4646 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Kentwood. Burial will be at Woodlawn Cemetery. Relative and friends may meet the family on Friday from 10-11 am prior to the service at the funeral home.