John R. Grunder

John R. Grunder, 60, of Trumansburg passed away suddenly at home from an unexpected cardiac event on Thursday, June 25, 2026

Born on January 25, 1966 in Ithaca, New York. John was a son to Robert and Elise (Alling) Grunder. Throughout his life, John was known for his unwavering honesty and his staunch dedication to his family. He was both a phenomenal athlete and a resilient worker. A graduate of Charles O. Dickerson High School and Tompkins County BOCES in 1984, John left his mark as an outstanding basketball player, earning the nickname "Thunder Grunder."

Professionally, John was a skilled carpenter and beef farmer, earning a reputation as a tireless worker who approached every task with integrity and commitment. He took immense pride in his animals and built his small farm from the ground up.

Outside of work, John was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing. He enjoyed collecting antiques and could often be found at local auctions and flea markets to find his next treasure. John's greatest passion, however, was supporting his children in their sporting and personal pursuits. No matter the event or the challenge, John could be counted on as their most enthusiastic cheerleader, encouraging them at every step and celebrating each accomplishment with pride.

John is survived by his wife Deborah (Overslaugh) Grunder; children Alison “Ali” Grunder and Austin “Buddy” Grunder; grandson, Colton; mother Elise "Lee" Grunder; sister, Mary Pell (Greg) Bidwell; brothers, Stephen (Kristin) Grunder and William (Shiloh) Grunder; close friends Tony Joseph, Mike Dumont, Ronald Root, Kenny Covert, Kent Davis, Greg Keyon and many others. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and extended family that he loved immensely. He is preceded in death by his father, Robert “Bob” Grunder; and beloved pups, Kahlua and Bailey.

A private service will be held by family with a celebration of life scheduled at a later date.

In the end, in true John fashion, "Over and out."