Born in 1943 to Arnold and Irmagene (Horton) Melling in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She married Gerald Gruidl in 1965, and together they built a beautiful life centered around family for 61 years.
A devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend, she loved gardening, art, books, travel and, later in life, golf. Fiercely independent and endlessly curious, she taught her children to think for themselves, embrace their independence and choose their own paths.
Preceded in death by parents and brother-in-law, Jack.
Survived by husband, Gerald; daughter, Christine (Paul) Lentz, children, Olivia (Fabricio) and Beatrice; son, Timothy (Susan) Gruidl, children, Brooke, Pierson and William; daughter, Pamela (Patrick) McGovern, daughter, Molly; brother, Carl (Kathy) Melling; sister-in-law, Rosie Gruidl and their families.
Her greatest legacy is the family she loved so deeply. In one final act of generosity, she donated her liver, giving a stranger the gift of life.
She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved her.
Celebration of Life, Tuesday, October 13, 2026 from 9 am - 12 pm, 10:30 am remembrances at The Club at Golden Valley, 7001 Golden Valley Road, Golden Valley, MN.
In lieu of flowers please direct donations to The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Foundation in honor of Mary Jo Gruidl.
