Karlton Gruel

Karlton A. Gruel, 86, of Waukon, IA, died Monday, August 23, 2021, at Veterans Memorial Hospital in Waukon. Graveside services will be held Saturday, September 25, 2021 , at 10:30 AM at the Postville Cemetery in Postville, IA, with Pastor Bryan Robertson officiating. A celebration of life and lunch will follow at the Farm Bureau building in Waukon. Martin-Grau Funeral Home in Waukon is handling arrangements.

Karlton Albert Gruel was born March 8, 1935, in Hardin, IA, near Postville, the son of Alvin and Amanda (Luebke) Gruel, the second of three sons: Darwin, Karlton, and Larry. Darwin and Karlton both contracted polio and, as a result, Darwin passed away.
Karlton was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran Church, where he continued his faith throughout his life and was a faithful usher at St. John's Lutheran Church in Waukon for many years.

He came to Waukon and in need of work, went to Northern Engraving. George Smrcina knew Karlton needed work and a place he could feel family and love; Karlton was hired as a night watchman then promoted to scrap bailer. He loved handing out candy daily to his co-workers and took his job very seriously. He was loved by all he worked with and dedicated 33 faithful years.

Karlton enjoyed playing cards at the City Club, stopping at Elliott Jewelers, his collection of 216 spoons, cheering on his Chicago Cubs, and wearing his 2016 World Series ring. He loved his extended family, especially "his boys" Kane and Sam. The boys would take Karlton to the park to play and look at the geese and then out for ice cream. Karlton loved going to Kane's soccer and basketball games. He has left us, but will forever remain in our hearts.

Karlton was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Darwin and Larry. He is survived by his boys Kane and Sam; his sister-in-law Sue Peterson; and cousins Ronnie (Marilyn) Jahnke and Stan Grotegut.