Bernard Louis Grubaugh

Bernard (Bernie) Louis Grubaugh, passed away on December 9, 2025, in his home in Willard, Missouri. He was born to Benjamin and Martha Grubaugh on February 14, 1938, in Wellfleet, Nebraska. He was the youngest of 11, eight boys and three girls.

Bernie was a graduate of Steelville High School, class of 1956. He was a man of many careers. He joined the Air Force right out of high school (‘56-’60). After his term of enlistment ended, he settled in Peru, Indiana with his lifelong love Linda. He married the love of his life, Linda (née Thomas) Grubaugh on June 28, 1959. After getting married, Bernie and Linda hardly spent time apart. In 1960, they had their beloved son, David, Sr., then their life led them to California in 1962, where he started his employment with Honeywell. In 1965, they had their cherished daughter, Teresa. He continued his career with Honeywell for 32 years.

After retiring from Honeywell, in true Bernie fashion, he got bored and decided to work as a machinist till 1995, when they moved to Oklahoma. Together Bernie worked with family to build a lake house. After the house was finished, he continued to enjoy retired life. Even though fishing was his passion in retirement, Bernie found his way back into a machine shop in Oklahoma until 2013. At that time he retired again and moved to Willard, Missouri where he would live out the rest of his days.

Bernie was a man of many interests. Including any sports, fishing, tinkering, riding the mower and especially his family (and anyone else’s family if they’d let him). His grandchildren were his pride and joy. He truly lived life to the fullest of its potential. Together Bernie and Linda traveled the country and created endless memories. After moving to Missouri, they found their way forging more family connections than they thought possible through hockey.

Preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin and Martha (née McKellips); nine of his siblings and their spouses (Nellie, Anna, Henry, Dolly, Matt, Wayne, Benny, Earl and Don); his son, David Grubaugh Sr.; son-in-law, Dave Houston; and his grandson, Colby Houston. He is survived by his brother Bill; wife, Linda Grubaugh; daughter, Teresa Houston; his grandchildren, Brett (Mackenzie) Houston, David (Jessica) Grubaugh Jr., Summer Grubaugh; son’s remarried widow, Lorri (John) Grubaugh Barber and a multitude of nieces, nephews and loved ones.

Services to honor Bernard’s life will be held on December 13, 2025, from 2-5 pm at the Herman Lohmeyer Funeral Home, 500 E Walnut, Springfield, MO 65806. Burial will be at a later date.

Bernie will be deeply missed, but the warmth and joy he brought to others will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of everyone who knew him.