Linda Gladys Gruner

Apr. 12, 1947-Oct. 9, 2026

Linda G. (Meinke) Gruner passed away peacefully in her home in Las Cruces, NM after a long battle with cancer. Her family was the center of her world, and she filled their lives with love, laughter, traditions, and countless treasured memories.

Linda found happiness in the simple pleasures of everyday life. She loved cooking for her family and took great pride in preparing delicious meals. Her potato salad was particularly famous and will be fondly remembered by everyone who enjoyed it.

Every Christmas and Easter, Linda made what seemed like a million cookies for everyone to share. The family often joked that eating so many would lead to holiday weight gain, yet no one could resist having “just one more”.

Linda’s Ohio roots ran deep. Growing up in Oak Harbor, Ohio, she became a lifelong Ohio State fan and loved cheering on her beloved team.

GO Buckeyes!

Linda also had a deep appreciation for nature. Each spring, she eagerly welcomed the return of her little “bird tenants,” who built their nests in the light sconces. She enjoyed watching them construct their nests and waiting for their babies to arrive.

At home, Linda enjoyed putting together puzzles and took satisfaction in finding the perfect piece. She also loved playing Scrabble with her husband Norman, taking particular pride in beating him whenever she could. Her playful spirit and sense of humor made even the simplest moments memorable.

Through her cooking, holiday traditions, love of nature, and joyful companionship, Linda created a lifetime of treasured memories. She will be deeply missed, but her laughter, warmth, and love will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

She was predecessed by her parents , Clayton and Josephine Meinke of Moultonborough NH and her sister, Nancy Meinke-Smarkel

She is survived by her husband of 48 years, Norman Gruner; her son, Andrew Gruner and his wife Lisa; her daughter, Amanda Gruner; her grandson, Jayden Currin ; and her godchild, Katherine Halloran; her husband, Thomas and son Clay; her nephew Chuck Smarkel and his children Matt Smarkel and Caitlyn Perez

The family would like to give a special thank you to Dr. Maize Tsang and the staff at Mayo Clinic of Phoenix and High Desert Hospice of Las Cruces for their exceptional care and support given.

A private burial will be held in Moultonborough, NH

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Linda’s memory with a donation to any of the following:

Help in Healing Home - 5811 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix, AZ 85054

St Joseph’s Indian School - PO Box 89 Chamberlain, South Dakota 57325

Love one another, hold your loved ones close, and cherish every moment. For in the end, it is the love we give and the memories we make that remain forever.” ~ Linda