Heavenly Birthday

I woke up this morning and wondered what a year's time is like in heaven. I can only imagine that it is nothing like how time passes on earth. It seems unbelievable that Pete has been gone from us for a whole year. Happy re-birth Pete!

Today's impending anniversary was made less painful by the comfort and support of so many people. Thank you friends for the cards that arrived, the blogsite postings, the flowers and plants sent or dropped at our door, the journal booklet created by loving co-workers, Pete's friends who came calling last evening, friends and family who called and shared tears, sisters and mother who came to share the day, the Norris Lake friends and detectives who remembered us, the tokens of love left at Pete's grave site, and all those who continue to keep us in your hearts and prayers. We are comforted and thank you for carrying Pete and us in your memory and care.

One of the many cards that arrived Saturday came from someone we never met in Saginaw, MI. The touching note seems to sum up our Pete's character and life. It reads: "It's been nearly a year and I still think of Pete quite often. I worked with Pete. He was my home office underwriter who handled quite a few of my agencies like a veteran. He was loved by his agencies. He was loved by me. My agencies fondly bring up his memory during many of my agency visits. You should be proud of how Pete turned out. We are all given a lifetime by our creator. Pete made the most of it....". Thank you Mark Kinzer for your kindness and affirmation of the special son and man our Peter was.

Tomorrow is the St Gabriel School graduation and the first recipient of the Pete Gruber Memorial Scholarship to Moeller High School will be announced. We thank Dan Rodenfels and Kurt Scherzinger for assisting with the selection of the young man who carries similar qualities of Pete. But more about that person after the award is made! The UD/ Cinti circle of friends have indicated a desire to annually support Pete's scholarship fund. After tossing around golf outings ideas, I think the majority have agreed that the Sunday before Memorial Day will become known as the Pete Gruber Memorial Bash! An outdoor gathering of friends with dining, music and an evening venue in Pete's memory seems just the right event that Pete would appreciate. So please hold this date for next year and future years. A planning committee will put together and communicate details. And where will the event be held next year? Why the same site as many of the Pete Gruber soiree's....the Gruber homestead in Glendale!

Rodger and Lisa Brown called this afternoon to describe the day at Norris Lake. They were heading out to Pete's accident site to place roses. In all the tragedy and pain of Pete's loss, we have found that love and goodness prevails. "Through all its' sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world" and life.

Love to everyone and our deepest thanks.

And to you Pete, our son and brother, we know you are in a fabulous place and we look forward to our time together again.

Love always,
Helene (Mom)