Michael Grube

Michael Grube, 82, of Terre Haute, passed away on September 25, 2024, at Harrison’s Crossing. He was born on November 27, 1941, in Indianapolis to the late Ernest and Norma (Wicker) Grube. Michael grew up in Indianapolis, where he helped his family work in their greenhouses, growing produce such as lettuce, tomatoes, and various other vegetables. After graduating high school, he met the love of his life, Kathryn, that summer. Not long after, Michael proposed, and by the next year, he and Kathryn were married. They began their life together in Indianapolis, but Michael's passion was farming, and in the early 1970s, he purchased a farm in Newport, Indiana.

Michael was ambitious and excited to start farming in Newport; however, his wife Kathryn was uncertain about leaving Indianapolis and relocating away from family and friends. Kathryn found a house to rent in Montezuma, where they moved with their family. By this time, Michael and Kathryn had three children: Cary, Susan, and Cynthia. The Grube’s soon became acquainted with wonderful neighbors and began attending Montezuma Christian Church. Michael was later baptized at this church and through the church found many lifelong friendships.

An avid outdoorsman, Michael enjoyed camping, hunting, fishing, hiking, canoeing, riding his ATV, and many other outdoor activities. He looked forward to his fishing trips to Canada and traveling throughout the western United States. He often found comfort in his hammock, and it is rumored that he would even hunt from it. Michael travelled with his family and he loved visiting many of the National Parks across the United States.

He enjoyed watching the History Channel, eating ice cream, drinking Dr. Pepper and debating the existence of aliens and other conspiracy theories. Michael also loved to playfully scare his grandchildren by wearing scary mask and chasing them around the house. Perhaps this early conditioning contributed to the athleticism of his children and grandchildren. Most of the grandchildren shared many first experiences with their grandfather, such as catching their first fish, boating, horseback riding, and getting caught in a “bear trap,” another of Michael’s playful antics.

Michael's farming career spanned over 50 years. He had a pragmatic outlook and wasn’t concerned about the little things in life, “if it ain’t broke- don’t fix it”. His friends enjoyed his laid-back attitude and charms. He always had plenty of good stories to share of his travels and various adventures with his friends. Michael retired from farming and in 2022, he and Kathryn downsized and moved to Terre Haute.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Kathryn Grube; his daughters Susan A. Grube and Cynthia (Mike Ray) Mandolini; and his grandchildren Brittany (Brian) Jones, Brandon (Taylor) Grube, Garrett (Austin) Grube, Sierra (Zeth) Jumps, Marco (Abbee) Mandolini, Kathryn Grube, Nicoli (Sabrina) Mandolini, William Grube, Carley Grube, and Rico Mandolini. He also leaves behind his great-grandchildren Kaden, Greyson, Autumn, Lucianna, and Demi. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his son Cary Grube, his sister Linda Lohkamp, and his brother Ernest Grube.

A visitation will be held from 4 to 7 PM on Friday, October 4, 2024, at Sunset Funeral Home’s DeVerter Chapel, located at 215 N. Division Street, in Cayuga, IN 47928. A funeral service celebrating Michael’s life will take place the following morning, Saturday, October 5, 2024, at 11 AM at Cayuga Christian Church, located at 406 S. Logan Street, also in Cayuga. He will be laid to rest with a brief committal service beginning at 4 PM Saturday at Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Greenwood, Indiana.

Online condolences and fond memories can be shared with the family on Michael's Tribute Wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

In honor of Michael Grube, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Parkinson's Foundation at www.parkinson.org or Cayuga Christian Church at www.cayugachristian.org in lieu of flowers.