William Carl Gruben, a longtime Brownwood and Denver City resident known for his work as a backhoe operator, construction worker and bus driver, died September 24, 2026, at age 77.
Gruben’s family will hold a memorial service at 2 p.m. Tuesday, September 29, at Lake Brownwood First Baptist Church. Lunch will be served before the service, beginning at noon. Heartland Funeral Home in Early is handling arrangements.
A life of work and family
Gruben was born September 14, 1949, in Brownfield, Texas, to Claudie Ray Gruben and Billie Jo Essary. He worked as a backhoe operator for 37 years before moving into construction and later becoming a bus driver.
He married Janet Lynn Gruben in Denver City on November 9, 1991. The couple were together for 41 years and married for 35.
His interests included western television shows such as Rifleman, Gunsmoke and Bonanza. He also enjoyed backhoes, yard work, knives and guns, and cars.
Survivors and family remembrance
Gruben is survived by his children, Brandon Gruben, Brandy Garcia, Billy Gruben, Ashley Gruben and Kevin Gruben; stepchildren Micky Valverde and Christopher Valverde; and grandchildren Zayne, Mikayla, Stetson, Madison and Luka. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.
He was preceded in death by his sisters, Sherry Kay and Joanna; brothers Claudie and Epkie Gruben; children Michell, Russell and Bubba; his parents and grandparents; niece Kayla; and nephews Gary and Chuck.
Online condolences, memories and tributes may be shared with the family through Heartland Funeral Home.