Michael S. Gruca, Sr. of Allentown, passed away Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at his home. Born in Point Pleasant, he grew up in Upper Freehold and graduated from Allentown High School. Mike was a talented mechanic who built ambulances, worked in autobody repair for many years, and including a golf course greensman. Mike moved to Oklahoma where he worked as an RV repairman before moving back to Upper Freehold in 2021. A man of simple pleasures, and extraordinary talent. He loved trains, RC cars, woodworking, music and his Jeep. Nothing beat sitting under the porch, while watching it storm. In his later years you could often find him tinkering with his wooden planes, listening to loud music or simply watching TV with his dog, Shakey.

Son of the late Stephen Gruca, Mike is survived by his son, Michael S. Gruca, Jr.; his stepson, Andrew Smith; his mother, Joyce Gruca; his sister, Joan Gruca; nieces, Cassidy and Kendall, his former wife, April Gruca, his aunt, Pat Gruca, as well as many other aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Cremation will be private under the direction of Peppler Funeral Home, Allentown.

Memorial contributions may be made in Michael's name to Joyce Gruca or Michael S. Gruca, Jr. c/o Peppler Funeral Home, 114 S. Main St. Allentown, NJ 08501.