Gary Robert Grugel

Gary Robert Grugel, beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend passed away December 29th, 2024, in Safford, Az. He was born June 5th, 1951, in Whittier, California to Herb and Helen Grugel, the 4th of 6 children.

Gary was the Black Sheep of the family, the troublemaker, he marched to the beat of his own drummer, and always did what he wanted to do, right or wrong. He was always tall and skinny, reaching 6 ‘3” by the time he was in 8th grade, so his dad gave him the nickname “Slim”.

It wasn’t until he met the love of his life Connie, that he changed his wild ways. The couple was married on June 5th, 1971, on Gary’s 20th birthday.

Shortly after they were married Gary and Connie moved to Page, Az and Gary took a job at Navajo Generating Station. Their son Jason joined them in December of 1973. The couple remained in Page for a few years until they moved to St. John’s, Az in September of 1977, and their daughter Cari joined them in January of 1978.

Gary worked for Coronado Generating Station for 32 years until he retired in June of 2009. They moved to Safford, Az in October of 2009 and built their dream home and enjoyed retirement together.

Gary loved riding his Harley with his son Brian, and grandson Bryan. He loved drinking his Natural Light and watching NASCAR and arguing politics with his grandson Jaxson. But most of all, he loved spending time with his family and his beloved cat Milo.

Gary is survived by his daughter Cari Chartrand, son Brian Chartrand, grandson Jaxson (Al) Grugel, grandson Bryan Chartrand, big sister Jeanne Corbett, little brother Craig Grugel, and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Gary was preceded in death by his beloved wife Connie, his son Jason, his parents Herb and Helen, and four brothers, Fred, Kirk, Larry, and Brad.