Chapter Eternal - Frederick Grun '47

We have been honored to call this man our Brother. The condolences of Theta Chi’s extended worldwide family are offered to the family and friends of our deceased brother.

It is with great sadness we report the passing of:

  • Frederick H. Grun '47 - Feb. 16, 2017

Frederick Grun '47 in LaVie

Frederick Grun '47 in LaVie

Frederick H. Grun, 93, beloved husband and father, died Thursday, February 16 at the Lebanon Valley Brethren Home.

Born in Philadelphia on March 31, 1923, he was the youngest son of Frederick C. L. Grun and Florence Gigon Grun. A graduate of Frankford High School, Philadelphia, he received his industrial engineering degree from Penn State University in 1947, where he was a member of Theta Chi, Omega chapter. During WWII he interrupted his education to enter the U.S. Navy, receiving his commission from Officer Training School at the age of 21. He served in the Philippines, received his discharge as a Lieutenant Junior Grade, and returned to college.

He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Janet Hartman Ganter Grun; two daughters, Ellen Hunter of Dallas, PA, Emily Grun and husband, John Nasta of Hershey; their mother, Donna Kaplan; step-children Roberta and husband, Ed Hoffer of Annville, Allan and wife, Sue Ganter of Lebanon, Fred and wife, Dawn Ganter of Tampa; a brother, Bill Grun of Doylestown; ten grandchildren, two great-grandchildren; and many special nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by brother, Bob Grun; sister, Bettie Roth; and first wife, Mary Louise Wollerton.

He began his career at Bethlehem Steel and retired as a Supervisor of Technical services after 35 years. After retirement he and Janet operated The New Rail Fence in Cleona, he worked for Light Heigel Assoc in Palmyra, and served as a Retail Merchandiser for several companies, retiring from SPAR Marketing in December 2016.

Frederick Grun

Frederick Grun

A 50+ year member of St. Andrews Presbyterian church, he served in many leadership roles there and enjoyed singing in the choir. Over the years he was involved in many Lebanon County organizations including Industrial Management Club, Cancer Society, Boy Scout Troop 21, PSU alumni club, and the Naval Reserve Officers' Group. He served as Auditor of North Annville Township and was a Board member of the Annville Free Library.

Fred loved life and always had a positive outlook. His property in Annville was a source of great joy as were his many friends and activities. He was an avid reader and Bridge player. He had a wonderful memory, was willing to help everyone, and could develop a 'solution' for any problem. He was a real pleasure to be around.

After moving to LVBH, Fred embraced many activities there including the Wood Shop, the Annual Sale, the Welcome Committee, and he was a champion Wii bowler.

Fred was a life-long fan of Penn State football and enjoyed many games at Beaver Stadium – never leaving a game early, despite the weather or the score.

Fred left us with many great memories, and he will really be missed.

Fred's ashes will be interred at Ft. Indiantown Gap with full military honors on February 20, at 2 p.m. A Memorial service in Fred's honor will be held on March 4 at 11 a.m. at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, Lebanon.

Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Lebanon County Unit, 855 Tuck Street, Suite 2, Lebanon, PA 17042 in his memory.