Michael Lee Gruytch

Michael Lee Gruytch, a devoted husband, a proud father of four, grandfather of 13, great-grandfather of four, and a steadfast friend to many, passed away on January 14, 2026, following a courageous and hard-fought eight-year battle with a brain tumor. He was 70 years old.

A Life Defined by Family

To Michael, family was not just a priority- it was his entire world. He was the cornerstone of his home, proving a foundation of love, humor, and strength for his wife, Peggy, and their four children, Joey, Amber, Nikki, and Jeremy. Whether he was cheering from the sidelines, offering quiet advice, or simply sharing a meal, Michael’s greatest joy was watching his children grow, succeed, and begin families that provided Michael with many grandchildren he absolutely cherished.

A Life Rooted in Faith

Central to Michael’s life was his renewed and unwavering Catholic faith. For Michael, his relationship with God was a compass that guided his every decision. He didn’t just speak about his beliefs; he lived them through acts of service, kindness, and a quiet, steady strength. His faith provided him with a profound sense of peace, especially during his illness, as he rested in the promise of eternal life.

A Marriage Strengthened by Grace

Michael’s faith was the bedrock of his marriage to Peggy. He believed that a strong marriage was a reflection of Christ’s love, and he treated his partnership with his wife as a sacred bond. By putting God at the center of their home, Michael and Peggy found the grace to navigate life’s challenges, the patience to grow together, and a deepened capacity for forgiveness and joy. Their union was a testament to the power of shared faith, and it served as a beautiful example of love and commitment for their four children and many grandchildren.

A Pilar of the Community

Michael was a familiar and friendly face to many in the community through his long-standing career at Costco. Known for his strong work ethic and his ability to strike up a conversation with anyone, he was more than just an employee; he was a mentor to his colleagues and an uplifting figure for the members he served. He took great pride in his work, believing that no job was too small to be done with integrity.

Courage in the Face of Adversity

When faced with the diagnosis of a tumor, Michael met that challenge with the same grit and grace that defined his life. He fought with every ounce of his being. Although he experienced many tough days, he rarely complained and always kept his focus on his loved ones. His bravery throughout his illness served as an inspiration to everyone who knew him, reminding us all of the power of hope and the importance of cherishing every moment. Michael’s legacy of kindness, hard work, and unconditional love will live on through his family and the countless lives he touched.