Philip is the last living member of the fourth generation of this Gruner family branch in America. He is the seventh child of Ben Gruner and Ellen Fant.

Philip left Alabama with his mother and brother in 1925. After high school he continued his schooling through what was then called the Ford Trade School, where he became an automotive engineer and worked for some years for the Ford Motor Company in Detroit. During World War-2 he spent one month in the Army, but was released to work for special engineering defense projects. During that period he qualified as an aviation engineer. After the war, he formed his own tool and die company.

In 1940, he married Rosie. Although they had no children, they worked actively with youth for many years, and directed many activities, including nature crafting. They provided a foster home for around 30 children, eventually adopting four of them, LeRoy, Richard, Corinne and Benjamin.

They were both lovers of nature. In the late 1970s, they bought a large wooded tract of land with a canyon and waterfall. An old mill and a building that had once been a dance hall were located on the property. Philip set about converting the dance hall into a comfortable home with a breezeway that spanned the small stream.

The children have grown, but Philip and Rosie have remained active in their church. Blessed with a good voice and perfect pitch, Philip was a music director in the Church for many years. Since retirement, he and Rosie visit retirement homes and lead in singing sessions.

Philip was the favorite Uncle of many of his nieces and nephews, whom through love placed him on a "pedestal of love in their hearts."


As this February 10th, 2002, is Philip's 90th. birthday and he is the last of the 4th. generation of Franz von Gruner descendants, a very special certificate has been awarded to him from Our family president, Charles W. Gruner.

Thanks to all of you that made it here to sign the Philip Gruner's Birthday Guestbook. All the signatures well wishes, and happy birthday's have been printed out and sent to Philip in the regular mail. I believe he will be delighted to know you remembered him on his special day!