James William Grutsch

Jim Grutsch

Alaska resident, James William Grutsch, age 64, passed away on Thursday, Aug. 18, 2011, at Alaska Regional Hospital in Anchorage, AK.

A memorial service will be held at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in O'Neill on Monday, Sept. 5, 2011, at 10 a.m. in his home town of O'Neill with Father Nigli officiating.

Jim was born in O'Neill on Nov. 24, 1946, to Joe and Helen (Grutsch) Babl. He graduated from St. Mary's High School and Southeast Community College in Milford, majoring in computer technology. He retired after 30 years as a computer and IT security specialist for the Department of Defense at Fort Richardson Army Base in Anchorage.

He was an avid out-doors-man, he loved to fish and hunt. His passion for the outdoors was passed down to his family while teaching them how to kayak, canoe, raft, and camp in the vast wilderness of Alaska that he made his home. Besides being an out-doors-man, Jim was a 'jack of all trades.' He was a talented woodworker and could fix just about anything he set his mind to.

Jim proudly served his country during the Vietnam War, earning a bronze star for valor. It is the fourth highest combat award of the United States Armed Forces.

He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Catherine (Schaaf) Grutsch,; his children, Jessica and James Estes, Jason and Jacob (fiance, Heather Andrus); three granddaughters, Johanna, Julianne and Jamie, who were his pride and joy, all from Anchorage; his mother, Helen (Grutsch) Babl and stepfather, Lionel Babl, O'Neill; eight siblings, George and Dianne Grutsch, of Missoula MT, Bernard and Marilyn Grutsch of Bloomington, MN, Bill and Kathy Grutsch of Hartington, Rae and Mike McMahon of Hillsboro, OR, Ruth and Alan Hornback of O'Neill, Joe and Sharon of Seward, Tony and Ilene Grutsch and Tim and Marcy,  all from Omaha; 57 nieces and nephews and 38 grand nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, Joe Grutsch.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary's in O'Neill, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton or Lumen Christi Junior and Senior High School, both in Anchorage.