Darrel Weldon Gruis

Darrel Weldon Gruis, age 85 of Nevis, MN, died Sunday, September 10, 2023, at the Viking Manor Nursing Home in Ulen, MN. Darrel was born on January 18, 1938, in Pipestone, MN. As a 12-year-old boy he moved with his family to Nevis, MN. He attended high school in Nevis where he earned the honor of being named a member of the Minnesota All State Football Team as a running back. After he graduated in 1956, he joined the United States Marines until his honorable discharge in July of 1958. He returned home and gained employment working construction and helping area farmers with field and livestock work. On May 28, 1960, Darrel was united in marriage to Janet Vogtman at St. John's Lutheran Church in Park Rapids. Their marriage was blessed with three children: Lynn, Michele, and Micheal. He worked alongside his wife doing work on their farm and at the seed store. He was involved with the Seed House for more than 30 years. He had many interests. He loved fishing, including many fishing trips to Canada. He was an avid bowler and won the honor of King of the Hill many times. He also loved to golf, he was an avid Twins fan who kept track of many players and their statistics. He also enjoyed playing cards and visiting with his friends and Neighbors. Darrel was highly active with the Star of The North Marine Corps League honoring many veterans as they were laid to rest. He will be lovingly remembered by his three children: Lynn (Leo) Gartner of Park Rapids, Michele (Dan) DeCrans of Nevis and Micheal (Eva) Gruis of Nevis; six grandchildren: Andrew, Kristin, Kenneth, Robert, Charlotte, and Jacob. Five great grandchildren: Madison, Oliver, Elliott, Penelope, and Reagan; his brother, David (Gail) Gruis of Park Rapids; his sister, Jean (Tim) Lindow of Bemidji; as well as nieces and nephews and many friends. Darrel was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Janet who died in January of 2022 and one grandson, Scott who died in 1994.