Eunice M. Grunzke

On December 12, 2023, Eunice Margaret Grunzke departed this earthly life to begin her forever in Heaven. She was born Eunice Margaret Bebler on April 17, 1926, in Wells, MN. Growing up on a farm, her childhood duties centered around tending the "babies" on the farm -- chicks, ducklings, goslings, calves, and pigs. She relayed entertaining stories of these creatures in her care, and this began a lifelong love of animals. Stray animals, especially cats, always seemed to find their way to her door and were never turned away.

As part of her faith journey, Eunice attended the customary Confirmation Classes in her church. Also attending that class was a young man named Marvin Grunzke. Though Marv lived on a neighboring farm, it was through this Confirmation Class that they became more acquainted and formed a special bond. On August 25, 1949, Eunice and Marv each married the only person they had ever loved. For 67 years, they shared a love, friendship, and partnership that few know. Marv's career in the Air Force took them through many moves, and when Col. Grunzke retired in 1975, they found themselves quite at home in Montgomery, AL, where they lived the remainder of their lives.

Growing up, Eunice was determined to follow her dream and pursue a college education. She attended Mankato State Teachers College, where she studied English and Literature and received a Bachelor of Science degree and teaching credentials. She took graduate courses at the University of TX at Austin and was just hours short of receiving her Masters Degree in Library Science. One unfulfilled dream, and about the only dream she didn't accomplish, was becoming a credentialed college librarian. She was an avid reader all her life and her interests spanned a wide spectrum, but Shakespeare was always high on her list. Language and literature were lifelong passions. She rarely encountered a crossword puzzle she couldn't master.

For many years, she taught first grade and was completely invested in her students. Her vivid stories of her students in later years were rich with affection and imbued with the joy that teaching brought her. At the end of her life, she could still remember the names of many of her students and enjoyed recounting anecdotes from her fulfilling days in the classroom.

Eunice was small in stature but large of heart and energy. She invested much of her time and talents to her church, Dalraida United Methodist, and many activities of service there. She also took great pleasure in gardening and her involvement in the Garden Club. One year as President, she planned the annual Every Light a Prayer for Peace celebration which was a highlight of the Christmas season each year.

She was an accomplished seamstress, cook, and baker. She also enjoyed knitting and crocheting. Her clothing creations rivaled the professional; tailoring clothing to her diminutive figure was a challenge and a skill. Her creativity found outlets in both the sewing machine and the kitchen. Hospitality was one of her special gifts. One never stopped by Eunice's house without being treated to freshly baked bread, muffins, cookies, or pie.

Eunice knew how to love well. Her family and life-long friends, the beneficiaries of her doting affections, all understood her faithful devotion and generous offerings of her time and loving ministrations. She was never too busy to offer an ear and a cup of tea. We will all miss that so much.

Eunice was predeceased by her parents Emil and Alvina Bebler, her brother Reuben Bebler, her husband Dr. Marvin Grunzke, and infant son Mark John Grunzke. She is survived by son Paul (Beth), grandson Eric (Marie), granddaughter Gretchen, and great-grandchildren Gavin and Clara.

The family wishes to acknowledge the compassionate, loving, and efficient end-of-life care provided by Gladys King, Betty Martin, Teresa Williams, and Teresa Zeigler. As well, our sincere gratitude is extended to Amber, Michelle, and Haley of Enhabit Health and Hospice of Montgomery, angels of mercy all to both Mom and the family.

A family and friends visitation for Eunice will be held Friday, December 29, 2023 at 10:00 AM at Dalraida United Methodist Church, 3817 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery, Alabama 36109, followed by a celebration of life church service at 11:00 AM.