Obituary
BREWSTER – Christian M. Grueninger, 80, died unexpectedly at his Brewster home on Sunday, September 27, 2020. Married to Jacqueline Bancks Grueninger for 32 years, Jackie preceded Chris in death in March 2019. Chris was born in White Plains, N.Y., and grew up in Valhalla, N.Y. He attended the Valhalla, N.Y., public schools, and graduated from Briarcliff High School, Briarcliff Manor, N.Y. Chris served in the Air National Guard his last 2 years of H.S. After graduation, Chris attended what was then New York Community College along with a 5-year apprenticeship with Local 3, I.B.E.W. in New York City. Chris was also active in the Valhalla Independent Fire Company for many years. Chris worked as an Electrician in New York City for 42 years before retiring in 2002 and moving to Brewster, MA. with Jackie from Pleasantville, NY.
Chris was the son of the late Paul & Dorothy Grueninger and the grandfather of the late Ryan Chipman. Chris is survived by two daughters from his first marriage to the late Ann Lewis Light: Barbara (Russell) Chipman of Brewster and Lynn (Ray) Diaz of Wappinger Falls, N.Y.; four grandchildren: Rory (Jessica), Maggie & Riley Chipman of Brewster; Leah Diaz of Wappinger Falls, N.Y, and a sister, Susana Grueninger Lopatka of Chicago, IL.
Services will be private & if you knew Chris- this makes perfect sense. His gruff & blunt exterior masked the heart of a true softie. Never one to openly share his feelings, he expressed his love for his family and friends by doing for them- without ever expecting something in return. It was his biggest secret and best quality.
His family wishes to thank a few people for making a difference in his life:
To his loving, caring, supportive neighbors (and their dogs) who became close friends and treated he and Jackie like family. You made his life better!
To the employees at the Brewster Cumberland Farms location- you saw him every day in the wee hours of the morning (he was most likely the first person in the door) to grab that hot cup of coffee he would then take to Breakwater Beach to watch the sun come up. Thank you for your kindness.
If you wish to make a donation in his name we ask that you consider the Cape Cod Alzheimer’s Family Support Center located here in Brewster or a charity of your choice.