BLANCHARDVILLE, WI – The community of Blanchardville is grieving the sudden and tragic loss of Gary John Gruenenfelder, a respected resident, businessman, and founder of Gruenenfelder Construction. The Blanchardville Fire Department shared the devastating news on social media, expressing their deepest condolences to the Gruenenfelder family and all those affected by this unexpected tragedy.
Gary Gruenenfelder, 69, passed away on Tuesday, December 5, 2023, in a horrific vehicle accident. His life had been marked by significant medical challenges, including prostate cancer, a burst brain aneurysm, an unruptured second aneurysm, and ocular melanoma. Despite these hardships, Gary maintained a cheerful attitude and displayed remarkable resilience, supported by the unwavering love and prayers of his family and friends.
Born on April 3, 1954, to Henry and Margaret Gruenenfelder, Gary was raised on the Blanchardville family farm. He was a proud member of the first graduating class of the newly established Pecatonica School system in 1972. Gary married Muriel (Murt) McCarville in 1975, and together, they embarked on a life of farming, cheesemaking, and community service.
Gary’s contributions to the Blanchardville community were immense. He founded Gruenenfelder Construction, leaving his mark on residential and commercial projects, including the construction of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Blanchardville. His dedication to public service extended to over 24 years as an EMT and secretary/treasurer for the Blanchardville Fire Department. He also served on the Pecatonica School Board and was a historian for the Knights of Columbus.
A successful businessman at heart, Gary established Quad County Rentals and reopened Gary’s Service Station, providing essential services to the local community. Gary cherished the land, using farm machinery on the ancestral property, and later returned home to support his son Farron in managing the family farm.
Gary Gruenenfelder is survived by his beloved wife Murt and leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and community spirit. The community is invited to pay their respects at a visitation on Sunday, December 10th, from 2:00 until 7:00 PM at Blanchard Hall. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, December 11th, at 11:00 AM at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, followed by burial in Calvary Cemetery in Blanchardville. The Blanchardville community mourns the loss of a leader, friend, and pillar of strength, and thoughts and prayers are extended to the Gruenenfelder family during this difficult time.
