Della Gruhlke

Della Lucille Gruhlke, 89, died of natural causes on Saturday June 21, 2025, at Saint Mary's Hospital in Rochester, where she had been a patient for an extended period during the past few months.

Della Lucille Bramble was born January 23, 1936, in Rochester, grew up on the family farm and attended rural schools. She married Ralph Gruhlke Sr. on May 28, 1955, in Rochester. The couple lived in Rochester until 1996 before moving to Pine Island for a few years, prior to moving to Stewartville. Mrs. Gruhlke operated her own business, Della's Creations, Alterations and Upholstery. She worked for Schmidt Printing of Rochester, retiring after a long career as a cutter operator and binder. She also worked several part-time jobs including Walmart, Silver Lake Foods, Lourdes High School and as a Crossing Guard for the city of Rochester.

Della enjoyed sewing, knitting, fishing, playing cards, bird watching and reading. She also enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, developing strong bonds that were nurturing and loving.

Survivors include two sons, Randy Gruhlke of Rochester, and Ralph Gruhlke Jr., of Stewartville and a daughter Tami (Randy) Smith (Gruhlke) of Rochester, a brother Thomas Bramble of Douglas; 9 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; and 6 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Gruhlke, on June 14, 1996; her parents, William and Nira Bramble; sister, Velma Rucker; and grandson Rusty Gruhlke.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, June 26, 2025, at Ranfranz & Vine Funeral Home, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester, MN with Pastor Karen Foster officiating. Visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at the funeral home as well as one hour before the service. Burial will be in Grandview Memorial Gardens in Rochester.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Gruhlke family. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com.