Randall C. Gruhlke, 61, of Eau Claire, died unexpectedly Sunday, January 9, 2011, at his home. \r\nRandy was born in Eau Claire on October 25, 1949, a son of Orville and Mable (Thompson) Gruhlke. \r\nRandy married Nancy Van Helden on January 4, 1969, at St. Olaf Catholic Church in Eau Claire. They had just celebrated their 42nd wedding anniversary.\r\nRandy graduated from Memorial High School in 1968. \r\nRandy worked at Kmart and then Presto before embarking on a career as an insurance agent. Randy helped establish and was a co-owner of GJF&Associates. He later worked for The Insurance Center, and most recently tended bar at the VFW Post 305, 1300 Starr Ave, Eau Claire, where he enjoyed socializing with his friends. \r\nRandy was an avid sports fan. He enjoyed playing golf, cards, and board games. In his younger years, Randy enjoyed ski jumping, baseball, and softball. His family will miss his cooking and grilling, especially his grandchildren who loved his popcorn and Belgian waffles. He was always telling jokes and stories that brought so much joy to those he came in contact with. Randy's family and friends were very important to him, and he will be missed by many.\r\nRandy is survived by his wife Nancy of Eau Claire; one son, Brian (Jacki) Gruhlke of Waupun, WI; three daughters, Diane Gruhlke of Eau Claire, Alison (Mike) Kline of Chippewa Falls, and Tracy (Nathan) Nelson of Eau Claire; 9 grandchildren, Dwayne, Lori, Adrianna, Jessica, Talon, Chase, Delaney, Brody, and Jaxon; two sisters, Bonnie Spencer of Eau Claire and Gayle (Richard) Hanson of Hugo, MN; three brothers, Wayne (Judy) Gruhlke of Fall Creek, Reginald (Susan) Gruhlke and Roger (Verna) Gruhlke, both of Eau Claire. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews and countless friends. \r\nHe was preceded in death by his parents; his father and mother-in-law, Henry and Ruth Van Helden; and one brother-in-law, Russell Spencer. \r\nFuneral services will be held on Thursday, January 13, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Olaf Catholic Church, 3220 Monroe Street, Eau Claire, WI with Father Konopa officiating. Inurnment will be at Calvary Cemetery in Eau Claire at a later date. Visitation will be from 5-8 p.m. on Wednesday, January 12, 2011 at the Lenmark-Gomsrud-Linn Funeral Home and also one hour prior to services at church. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.

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