William "Bill" Daniel Gruss, age 85, passed away March 25, 2026. 

Bill was born on August 4, 1940, in Milwaukee to William and Hazel Gruss (nee Plate). He married Jacqueline Smith on December 5, 1964, in Milwaukee, and they were married for 61 years. 

Bill proudly served in the United States Navy from 1957 to 1961, where he served as an Opticalman. During his service, he enjoyed time in the Mediterranean on tours and met his future wife while in Paris, France. Following his service, he spent 30 years working as a long-distance truck driver, a career reflecting his strong work ethic and love for the open road. 

Bill was a hard worker who took pride in building, fixing, and creating. He had a lifelong passion for military vehicles, especially Jeeps and trucks, and spent countless hours restoring and building them from the ground up. 

More than anything, Bill enjoyed staying busy and meeting others. He was known for his strong work ethic, his ability to tell a good story, and his great sense of humor. 

Bill loved spending time with family and friends and getting out and about. In later years, you could find him making his rounds to rummage sales, hardware stores, or the elusive good bakery. He had an outgoing spirit and truly enjoyed life on his own terms. 

Bill leaves behind a loving family including his wife of 61 years, Jacqueline; two sons, William S. (Elizabeth) Gruss and Matthew D. (Holli) Gruss; grandchildren, Meghan (Jeremy), Keegan (Jessie), Braeden, and Kaedan; and great-grandchildren, Aiden and Madelyn. 

VISITATION: Bill’s family will greet relatives and friends on Saturday, April 4, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:45 a.m. at Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service, 1315 W. Washington St., West Bend, WI 53095. 

SERVICE: A Memorial Service in remembrance of Bill will take place at 12:00 noon on Saturday at the funeral home. 

The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at Preceptor Hospice for their care and compassion. 

Myrhum-Patten Funeral Home has been entrusted with Bill’s arrangements. For additional information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.myrhum-patten.com.