1947-2025
James W. Gruda, Age 78 of Sykesville, PA died Friday, December 26, 2025 at Christ the King Manor.
Born on May 21, 1947 in DuBois, PA, he was the son of the late Walter and LaRue (Lyons) Gruda.
On August 27, 1983, he married his wife of 42 years, Doris M. “Dorey” (Hart) Gruda. She survives.
Jim was a veteran of the United Staes Army having served during the Vietnam War.
He retired from Lezzer Lumber as a kitchen salesman after over 30 years of service.
Jim was an avid fan of the Penns State Nittany Lions and all things Jimmy Buffett. He was a true “Parrott Head”. Jim was a life member of the American Legion and a big supporter of all military organizations such as the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund and the Disabled American Veterans to name a few. His generosity and thoughtfulness knew no bounds. Although unknown to many, each Christmas, Jim would contact a local nursing home and ask for the number of residents. On Christmas Eve, Jim would make sure each one of those residents had a hand signed Christmas card from Santa to let them know they were valued and remembered. He will be missed by many.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by a daughter (Maria Gruda of Sykesville, PA) , two grandchildren (Adam and Zander), and a brother (Dave Gruda and his wife Stephanie of Sykesville, PA).
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 30, 2025 from 11 a.m. until 12:45 p.m. at the Baronick Funeral Home & Crematorium, Inc.
A funeral service will follow at 1 p.m. from the funeral home with Pastor Mark Montgomery officiating.
Burial will follow in Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Manry Cemetery in Sykesville where full military honors will be accorded by the members of the DuBois Area Honor Guard.
Memorials may be placed with the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, 1530 Wilson Blvd., Suite 550, Arlington, VA 22209.
