Robert Francis "Bob" Gruschow, 71, of Carlisle, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family, on Thursday, June 18, 2026.

Bob was born on May 21, 1955, in Brooklyn, New York, to the late Francis and Ruth (Johnson) Gruschow.

After graduating from King's College with a bachelor's degree in Business, Bob honorably served his country in the United States Navy for six years. During his military service, he served aboard the USS Lafayette as a Sonar Technician. Following his service in the Navy, he began a career as a Disability Claims Adjudicator for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, retiring after more than twenty-five years of service.

Bob was a devoted sports enthusiast and a lifelong fan of the New York Yankees and New York Giants. His love of sports extended far beyond cheering from the sidelines. He spent more than twenty-five years coaching and mentoring young athletes, including his own children and countless others. He coached basketball and track at St. Patrick School in Carlisle and later coached cross country and track at Trinity High School in Camp Hill, where he inspired generations of student-athletes through his encouragement, patience, and example.

Bob also enjoyed serving others and was especially proud of participating in several Appalachian Service Project mission trips with fellow Trinity volunteers in the last few years, helping families in West Virginia in need through home repair and improvement projects.

Above all else, Bob's greatest pride and joy was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose kindness, generosity, humor, and unwavering love touched the lives of all who knew him.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Mary Pat Gruschow of Carlisle; five children, Michael Gruschow, Tommy (Inés) Gruschow, Tricia (Erik) Cassella, Maggie (Brian) O'Neill, and Kathleen Gruschow; two brothers, Jimmy (Vicki) Gruschow, and Matthew (Janet) Gruschow; one sister, Ruthann (Danny) Gerdes; and five cherished grandchildren, Molly O'Neill, Hank Gruschow, Coulter O'Neill, Annie Gruschow, and Bobby Gruschow, with one more grandchild expected soon; and many loving nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by the Very Rev. William C. Forrey at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at St. Patrick Shrine Church, 152 East Pomfret Street, Carlisle, PA 17013. A private interment with military honors will be held the following day at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Bob to the Appalachian Service Project by visiting www.asphome.org. Arrangements are being handled by Hollinger Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., Mt. Holly Springs.