The Peter Gruber Memorial Scholarship Fundraiser event came and went; Raffle prizes and silent auction items poured in; donations flowed; 100 golfers played in the stifling humidity and heat; 160 friends came to dinner; Pete's inner posse came as well as all the UD friends from far and away; monies were tallied; thank you notes were written; the event raised over $19,000. That is a lot of Moeller education.
The first year scholarship recipient, Elliot Hidy, was awarded a continued scholarship for the 2010-2011 school year. His BIG heart and love of others reminds us of our Pete. The second scholarship winner was awarded as well from the St Gabriel class of 2010.
We weren't really ready to start this project this year but the Butz's, Piepmeier's, Scherzinger's and Dan Rodenfels asked us to begin the first annual golf outing. With their help, the idea was launched and a working committee formed. Mike Bolin and my sister Barb Kelly joined us as the planning proceeded.
We appreciate everyone's support and involvement with this fundraiser. We are thankful for the success and energy it brought forth.
We remain ever amazed at how many people's lives Pete touched, and how many people miss him as deeply as we do. It was good to see old faces and to know that Pete is not forgotten. And through the scholarship, his legacy will live on.
We love you Pete, forever, and miss you terribly.
Love and blessings to all,
Helene and Bob
7.20.2010
3.17.2010
First Annual Peter J. Gruber Memorial Scholarship Golf Outing & Dinner Auction - Sunday May 30th, 2010
Golf Outing
1:30 p.m. Shotgun Start
Glenview Golf Course
10965 Springfield Pike, Glendale, OH
$100 Golf Donation Includes: 18 holes with cart – scramble format, lunch, beer and prizes. Mulligans will be sold on site. You do not need to have four golfers, singles/doubles will be paired.
Dinner & Auction
6 p.m. Glendale Lyceum Pavilion
865 Congress Avenue, Glendale, OH
$25 Dinner Includes: a three-course pulled pork dinner with beer and wine. Plus, split the pot and bidding during our silent and live auctions. *Please note that cash and checks will be the only form of payment accepted auction night.
Donation items for the auction are welcome and encouraged; please contact Barb Kelly at 513.779.7442 to donate.
All proceeds benefit the Peter J. Gruber Scholarship Fund – established for a St. Gabriel graduate attending Moeller High School, who embodies Pete’s passion for life.
Click Here For Registration Forms & More Information
The Golf and Dinner Registration Deadline Is May 15th, 2010.
3.13.2010
2.24.2010
Happy 28th Birthday, Pete!!
I know there is a BIG celebration in heaven today because I am sure you have insisted on a good party. Why not continue the earthly tradition of celebrating your day?
Dad, Paul and I are here together in Fla, in our new tradition, helping each other get through this day. We remember the joy of your birth and the love you brought into our lives.
We miss you Pete. We love you forever. Happy Birthday, my precious son.
Love,
Mom
xoxo
Dad, Paul and I are here together in Fla, in our new tradition, helping each other get through this day. We remember the joy of your birth and the love you brought into our lives.
We miss you Pete. We love you forever. Happy Birthday, my precious son.
Love,
Mom
xoxo
2.23.2010
2.04.2010
Getting by with the help of Pete's friends
I am trying to help another bereaved mother who lost her 21 year old son unexpectedly before Christmas. I never dreamed of the pain that would surface or the scab that would tear off my heart in trying to help her. All in all, it is a good thing because it makes me reflect on how I made it to today.
My new friend has asked me how I got through Pete's loss and I tell her that it is the love of Pete's friends who have carried us and inspire us. We get glimpses of what Pete's life would be like when we join in the births, weddings, baptisms, and life events that you keep us connected to. Pete surrounded himself with an amazing group of friends and we love you and are proud of all of you.
Today's mail, on a gloomy winter day, brought pictures of flowers and seed pods from one of Pete's friends. A great lift to my day. And the planning committee for the May 30th scholarship fundraiser has brought laughter and delight into our world.
Thank you for caring for us and keeping Pete's memory alive.
Love,
Helene
My new friend has asked me how I got through Pete's loss and I tell her that it is the love of Pete's friends who have carried us and inspire us. We get glimpses of what Pete's life would be like when we join in the births, weddings, baptisms, and life events that you keep us connected to. Pete surrounded himself with an amazing group of friends and we love you and are proud of all of you.
Today's mail, on a gloomy winter day, brought pictures of flowers and seed pods from one of Pete's friends. A great lift to my day. And the planning committee for the May 30th scholarship fundraiser has brought laughter and delight into our world.
Thank you for caring for us and keeping Pete's memory alive.
Love,
Helene
1.16.2010
Save the Date
The first annual Pete Gruber Memorial Scholarship Golf Outing will take place on Sunday May 30, 2010. The Golf Outing will be followed with Dinner, Dancing, and a royal Pete Gruber Bash!! Proceeds from the event will support the Moeller Scholarship fund in Pete's memory.
More information will be forthcoming as a core group develops the plans. Anyone interested in helping with this event, please call us.
Love to all, especially our Pete!
Helene (Mom)
More information will be forthcoming as a core group develops the plans. Anyone interested in helping with this event, please call us.
Love to all, especially our Pete!
Helene (Mom)
11.24.2009
11.03.2009
Way to go, Elliot !!!
Today's mail brought joy and tears. Elliot, the first pete gruber scholarship winner, sent a letter with GREAT news......Elliot made the HONOR ROLL!!!! He says its the first time ever for him to have the grades to do this. He is so very excited and shared the news of all his volunteer and club activities (Varsity Football Manager, service work in Over the Rhine, volunteer at Sunrise Assisted Living).
We are proud of how hard you are working Elliot and Pete reminds you to ENJOY the Moeller experience!!!
Helene,Bob and Paul
Your biggest fans!
We are proud of how hard you are working Elliot and Pete reminds you to ENJOY the Moeller experience!!!
Helene,Bob and Paul
Your biggest fans!
St Gabriel Class of 1996 Tree
We have been racking our brain cells trying to post a copy of the St Gabriel Church Bulletin on the blog. After 4 weeks, we have resigned ourselves to waiting until Dan visits or Paul comes home to get it posted. But here are the details about one incredible class and a beautiful fall day.
Pete's former grade school classmate, Julie Joseph, organized the Class of 1996 to plant a tree on the school grounds in Pete's memory. On Saturday October 3, 2009, half of the class and parents, friends, family, former principal and teacher, and Fr Fay came together to dedicate a brilliantly colored red-wine maple tree in front of the school building. Tom Joseph later mounted and secured a granite engraved plaque in front of the tree. In addition to the tree, the Class also gave a sizable donation to Pete's scholarship fund.
The days leading up to the memorial event were gray and gloomy, but on Oct 3rd, the sun burst out and the beautiful crisp fall day added to the scene. Our spirits were buoyed not only by the sunshine, but the love of so many young people. Our pride in that class has never diminished over all these years. Our Pete was so fortunate to have shared a special bond with so many great families and friends from St Gabriel.
We are thankful to the Joseph family, Fr Fay and the Class of 1996 for remembering our son with such kindness and caring. It means a lot to us to know that Pete is not forgotten.
The Gruber's
Pete's former grade school classmate, Julie Joseph, organized the Class of 1996 to plant a tree on the school grounds in Pete's memory. On Saturday October 3, 2009, half of the class and parents, friends, family, former principal and teacher, and Fr Fay came together to dedicate a brilliantly colored red-wine maple tree in front of the school building. Tom Joseph later mounted and secured a granite engraved plaque in front of the tree. In addition to the tree, the Class also gave a sizable donation to Pete's scholarship fund.
The days leading up to the memorial event were gray and gloomy, but on Oct 3rd, the sun burst out and the beautiful crisp fall day added to the scene. Our spirits were buoyed not only by the sunshine, but the love of so many young people. Our pride in that class has never diminished over all these years. Our Pete was so fortunate to have shared a special bond with so many great families and friends from St Gabriel.
We are thankful to the Joseph family, Fr Fay and the Class of 1996 for remembering our son with such kindness and caring. It means a lot to us to know that Pete is not forgotten.
The Gruber's
9.20.2009
Never to be Forgotten...
Butz’s wedding was last night – a beautiful ceremony, and a great party at the reception. I left last night with such a wonderful feeling- feeling so blessed to have met so many wonderful friends at UD – it seems whenever we get together not a moment has passed since we graduated. Pete was remembered and missed throughout this day of celebration.
Please be assured that Pete was thought about each and every moment. While singing “Livin on a Prayer” or jamming to “Midnight Train to Georgia,” Pete was there in all of our hearts. I pictured him smiling while watching Zach pretend that he was Gladys Knight, or laughing hysterically while Paul performed “Billie Jean.” He was definitely smiling down as Dan pondered about the roast beef lamps.
Even though Pete couldn’t physically be with us, please know that he is living in our hearts, always. We all have a little piece of Pete within us, and will hold on to those moments forever.
Please be assured that Pete was thought about each and every moment. While singing “Livin on a Prayer” or jamming to “Midnight Train to Georgia,” Pete was there in all of our hearts. I pictured him smiling while watching Zach pretend that he was Gladys Knight, or laughing hysterically while Paul performed “Billie Jean.” He was definitely smiling down as Dan pondered about the roast beef lamps.
Even though Pete couldn’t physically be with us, please know that he is living in our hearts, always. We all have a little piece of Pete within us, and will hold on to those moments forever.
9.07.2009
Celebration in Heaven today
Grandma Busam died peacefully in Hospice last night. We talked about her watching out for Pete's antics, but then, she knows him well enough to stay one step ahead of him!
I am certain that Pete would have been all torn up over his Grandmother's short illness and death journey, had he been here. I have to believe that God is good and that there is a plan for everything, including the magnificent celebration of a grandmother and first born grandchild reuniting.
Rest in peace my loved ones.
Helene/ Mom
xoxo
I am certain that Pete would have been all torn up over his Grandmother's short illness and death journey, had he been here. I have to believe that God is good and that there is a plan for everything, including the magnificent celebration of a grandmother and first born grandchild reuniting.
Rest in peace my loved ones.
Helene/ Mom
xoxo
7.18.2009
New Pete
Welcome to the world, Connor Pete Scherzinger!! We know that Peter is smiling large from heaven on his namesake! Best wishes to Kurt and Alicia......life comes full circle and we thank you for including us in your joy and new life!
Love
Helene, Bob and Paul
6.30.2009
A year ago this day
Hard to believe that one year ago this evening Pete's body finally surfaced from the depths of Norris Lake. I reminisced this morning on my drive to work about how difficult this memory must be for the boaters who found him and the shock they must have felt. We are grateful to them for guarding Pete's body and helping with the recovery. We hope they have been able to put aside the memory and nightmare of such a vision. Our thanks go out to them for their kindness.
Thirty five days of waiting for Pete's recovery seemed like such torture last year. Little did we know that the same 35 days this year would still be as heartbreaking. This new normal is such a contrast to the wonderful summer days that we enjoyed as a family.
The fireflies are spectacular this year Pete. I can only hope that their lightning spark looks like stars to you in heaven. And we're sitting here in the midst of these stars, missing you.
Love always,
Mom
xoxo
Thirty five days of waiting for Pete's recovery seemed like such torture last year. Little did we know that the same 35 days this year would still be as heartbreaking. This new normal is such a contrast to the wonderful summer days that we enjoyed as a family.
The fireflies are spectacular this year Pete. I can only hope that their lightning spark looks like stars to you in heaven. And we're sitting here in the midst of these stars, missing you.
Love always,
Mom
xoxo
6.11.2009
Scholarship Winner
Meet Elliot Hidy, he is the recipient of the 1st Annual Peter Gruber Memorial Scholarship. Elliot will attend Moeller this fall as a freshmen. We could not be more satisfied with our choice to represent Moeller High School and the Gruber family.
5.26.2009
It's been a year today since I received the news from Kurt. I remember it like it was yesterday. I had that same feeling in my stomach this morning, the shock, disbelief, I almost threw up. Then I went to my computer and looked back at some emails that I had accidently saved. The picture of pete's head after the paintball accident at kellen's bachelor party. There was a friendly rant between Ackerman and Pete about the bengals and packers filled with choice words. These all brought a smile to my face. I can picture him giggling to himself as he sent them, everyone knows that little devilish laugh he does when he is up to no good. I am starting to ramble. It was great to see so many people on sunday, which is completely reflectant of the person Pete was. I hope to see everyone again soon.
mark
mark
5.25.2009
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)
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)
Missing You...
I cannot believe it has been a year...a year without my friend Pete's laugh, smile, bright blue eyes, jokes, comfort...
I cannot believe it has been a year...a year ago this morning when I recieved a call that I never wanted to receive, that one of my best friends was gone...
I cannot believe it has been 5 years...5 years since graduating with the most amazing people I have ever met and knowing that one will be missing as we congregate for our reunion in June...
Although it has been a year, we continue to be strong, carrying Pete's memory on. There is not a day that goes by that I do not think of Pete. I have a picture of the two of us at my office, it is by far one of my favorites...it's of the two of us from our graduation party when Pete and I got into a cake fight. We have cake all over our faces, in our hair, on our clothes, and we are wearing the hugest smiles. That picture, among others, reminds me daily of the way Pete made us all feel and I never want to forget that feeling. Whenver all of us Flyers get together, we have a great time, and although we often feel that void that Pete once filled, we know that he is smiling down on us and enjoying a party himself up in Heaven.
We will all be thinking of Pete in a few weeks as we join together as the class of 2004 at our reunion at the good ole' University of Dayton. I am sure we will make several trips up to the tree we planted/dedicated to Pete and reminisce the memories we all shared together.
I miss you Pete, today and every day. And to the Grubers and Leigh, my hearts and prayers are with you every day.
Love, Mel
I cannot believe it has been a year...a year ago this morning when I recieved a call that I never wanted to receive, that one of my best friends was gone...
I cannot believe it has been 5 years...5 years since graduating with the most amazing people I have ever met and knowing that one will be missing as we congregate for our reunion in June...
Although it has been a year, we continue to be strong, carrying Pete's memory on. There is not a day that goes by that I do not think of Pete. I have a picture of the two of us at my office, it is by far one of my favorites...it's of the two of us from our graduation party when Pete and I got into a cake fight. We have cake all over our faces, in our hair, on our clothes, and we are wearing the hugest smiles. That picture, among others, reminds me daily of the way Pete made us all feel and I never want to forget that feeling. Whenver all of us Flyers get together, we have a great time, and although we often feel that void that Pete once filled, we know that he is smiling down on us and enjoying a party himself up in Heaven.
We will all be thinking of Pete in a few weeks as we join together as the class of 2004 at our reunion at the good ole' University of Dayton. I am sure we will make several trips up to the tree we planted/dedicated to Pete and reminisce the memories we all shared together.
I miss you Pete, today and every day. And to the Grubers and Leigh, my hearts and prayers are with you every day.
Love, Mel
Not a day has gone by over this past year that Pete hasn't crossed my mind. I hope Leigh, Paul and Mr. and Mrs. Gruber find solace in knowing that everday when I have thought of Pete the memories have brought a smile to my face. I'll toast in Pete's memory today and smile once again.
Love Always,
Alison Gettings
Love Always,
Alison Gettings
5.24.2009
Missing Peterman
I'm sitting here about to head over to the Gruber's for a memorial cookout for Pete and can't forget one of the worst calls that someone could get. That was that their best friend and someone that they considered as close as a brother had gone missing. I miss Pete everyday but when it hits me the most is when I go to do something that we either used to enjoy with our friends together or a place we used to frequent.
Pete will definately be missed at the five year reunion this summer when the group of friends that he brought together all meets up to relive their 4 or in some cases 5 years spent at the great University of Dayton. The one good thing is that he will be on campus with us through that time both in soul and through his memorial tree.
His memory will live through all of us as we all remember how he touched each one of our lives. Miss you Peterman!!!!!
Pete will definately be missed at the five year reunion this summer when the group of friends that he brought together all meets up to relive their 4 or in some cases 5 years spent at the great University of Dayton. The one good thing is that he will be on campus with us through that time both in soul and through his memorial tree.
His memory will live through all of us as we all remember how he touched each one of our lives. Miss you Peterman!!!!!
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