The sad news reached us last evening of the passing of Kurt Oblinger. A great young man with a heart of gold. It was Kurt who arrived on our doorstep that morning in May to help Paul, Bob and I with our grief. He understood all too well the loss of a brother and the grief of parents in their state of shock. He knew from his own experience with the loss of his brother Keith 2 years before, what to do and say to us.
I remember he asked where to find pictures and he put together a wonderful gift - the slide shows of Pete's life (see on the website here). He made copies of the video for all of us and organized the viewing at Pete's celebration of life and the website. A very kind, thoughtful and methodical gift from a man with a heart of gold.
Over the past three years, Kurt would drop into our lives with a loving nudge and make sure Paul was okay. His quiet nature and good humor was always a welcome respite.
When the news reached us last evening of Kurt's death, I had a great sense of a fabulous re-union taking place in heaven between brothers Kurt and Keith. And in the joy of that moment, I know Pete was there to join in the festivities and exclaim a party event in Kurt's honor. I am sure the celebration is still going strong.
I thank my God for Kurt; the man he was and the compassionate heart he shared with us all. While his own heart and donor heart gave out by 26 years of age, his courage and love last forever in those lives he touched. God bless Kurt.
Helene
4.25.2011
3.03.2011
2.24.2011
Birthday Remembrance
Thinking of you today Pete and carrying you in our hearts.
Love,
Mom, Dad, and Paul
xxoo
Love,
Mom, Dad, and Paul
xxoo
2.05.2011
2nd Annual Pete Gruber Memorial Scholarship Golf Outing
The place to be on Sunday May 29, 2011 is Glenview Golf Course.
$125 player fee includes 18 holes of golf, prizes, lunch and buffet dinner.
$25 dinner fee for additional guests.
Dinner will take place in the club room at Glenview, immediately following the outing.
Watch for more details; flyers and sign up information is forthcoming. New players welcomed!
$125 player fee includes 18 holes of golf, prizes, lunch and buffet dinner.
$25 dinner fee for additional guests.
Dinner will take place in the club room at Glenview, immediately following the outing.
Watch for more details; flyers and sign up information is forthcoming. New players welcomed!
12.30.2010
Amazing Grace
Over the years, when the UD Quarterly would arrive in the mail, the first column I would turn to before the class notes was Thomas Columbus' editorial. I always found great comfort, joy and a chuckle from his musings on campus life and UD's far lasting impact on my world. Thomas has retired and published a book of these editorials, called Amazing Grace. The UD bookstore holiday flier promoted this book and I liked the fact that half of the book's sale price goes to fund Thomas' son's memorial scholarship at UD. Another bereaved parent from UD; seemed so fitting to me that I sent Paul to the UD bookstore to pick up a few copies. Thomas' book did not disappoint me. I fervently read the stories from cover to cover, only this time from the perspective of my alumni years and Pete's class years and the mutual grief of a child lost. I have been filled with the greater understanding of the powerful grace that UD faculty, students and alumni have brought into our life. Beyond the porch connections and community spirit, the UD experience was Pete's beloved glory and we shared that love along with him.
The mail this Christmas season brought pictures of 3 new future Flyers, compliments of the proud Hicks, Bollin and Hinker families. We understand there are a few more born as well and we appreciate everyone staying in touch with us. Pete would be talking our arms off about each of your adventures; so we appreciate you filling that void and keeping us involved in the busyness of your lives.
This is our third Christmas without Pete. Each one seems to get more difficult rather than easier. I think it's because so much has happened and the more stories there are to tell, the more his absence seems stronger. I know Paul would love to chat with him about his medical school adventures, and Bob, his golf score and new driver! And me, well, I just miss him terribly.
We send our best wishes for a blessed and peaceful new year to everyone. We hope to see you in May for Pete's second annual golf outing.
Love to all, especially Peter
Helene (Mom)
The mail this Christmas season brought pictures of 3 new future Flyers, compliments of the proud Hicks, Bollin and Hinker families. We understand there are a few more born as well and we appreciate everyone staying in touch with us. Pete would be talking our arms off about each of your adventures; so we appreciate you filling that void and keeping us involved in the busyness of your lives.
This is our third Christmas without Pete. Each one seems to get more difficult rather than easier. I think it's because so much has happened and the more stories there are to tell, the more his absence seems stronger. I know Paul would love to chat with him about his medical school adventures, and Bob, his golf score and new driver! And me, well, I just miss him terribly.
We send our best wishes for a blessed and peaceful new year to everyone. We hope to see you in May for Pete's second annual golf outing.
Love to all, especially Peter
Helene (Mom)
10.10.2010
UD Tree
Paul and I visited campus today to check out Pete's tree by the new PAC. I forgot it was a Buckeye and despite the drought, it looks very healthy. It seems to bend a bit toward Trinity but I suppose that's the natural evolution of a good UD student!
So hard to believe that the tree has been there 2 years now this month. It was a glorious sun filled day today, reminiscent of planting day.
We miss everyone as well as Pete, and wish all the best.
Love,
Helene, Bob and Paul
So hard to believe that the tree has been there 2 years now this month. It was a glorious sun filled day today, reminiscent of planting day.
We miss everyone as well as Pete, and wish all the best.
Love,
Helene, Bob and Paul
7.20.2010
A Grand Event
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
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
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
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