Gerry Lee Gribble
Gerry Lee Gribble, 92, of Pentwater and Rensselaer, Ind. was born May 21, 1933, in Sioux City, Iowa and passed away on Friday, January 16, 2026, at Ludington Woods in Ludington. He was the only son of Vernon and Kathleen (Engle) Gribble and raised in Muncie, Ind.
On June 13, 1954, he married Barbara Ann Carson, and their cherished marriage lasted 69 years.
In 1956, Gerry earned a master’s degree in optometry, as a member of the first graduating class of the School of Optometry at Indiana University. For over 30 years he practiced optometry in Rensselaer, Ind.
He entertained many hobbies and passions throughout his life. His lifelong passion for learning new things led him to studying plants and all aspects of plants. While maintaining his optometry practice, he established a second business in Rensselaer, New Life Nursery with his son Steve.
He formally embarked on a second career in landscape design earning a bachelor’s degree from Purdue University in 1989 with specialties in turf and deciduous ornamentals. Upon graduation, he was employed by the Indianapolis Museum of Art as their head groundskeeper. He loved sharing his knowledge and passion for the plant world with family, friends and just about anyone who showed the same interest.
Gerry was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara; his son, Stephen Gribble; and grandson, Jacy Spurgeon.
He is survived by his son John (Jayne), daughters Carol (Boeding) and Anne (Tracy Spurgeon); grandchildren Tyler Spurgeon (Tertia), Ashley Spurgeon Maple (Zach), Jeffrey Gribble (Trisha), Jennifer Gribble Blair (Taylor), James Boeding (Emily) and Katharine Boeding; seven great grandchildren; his dear cousin Gene Engle and a good friend Brian Hartung.
The family thanks the caregivers and staff of Ludington Woods, and the Hospice of Michigan community, who offered him comfort and compassionate care.
A private family gathering will be held at a later date to honor Gerry’s life and legacy. Please consider planting a tree, a shrub or flowers as a living tribute to his memory.
Arrangements were entrusted to Grace Funeral Home and Cremation Services. www.GraceCremations.com
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