Joseph J.(Herbst) Gruber

ALBANY, NY – Joseph J. Gruber, 78, passed away on Friday, January 08, 2010 at St.Mary's Hospital in Troy. He was born in Albany and served his country during the Korean War in the United States Marine Corp. Mr. Gruber was a firefighter for the City of Albany for 33 years, stationed at Engine Co. #7 for 31 years, before h is retirement in 1986. He was an avid walker, enjoyed a good cup of coffee and spending time with his faithful feline companion, "Lady." Joe was the beloved husband of the late Irene "Bootsie" Herbst Gruber. He is the devoted father of Edward (Terri Becker) Herbst, Jr., Elizabeth (Joseph) Vandenburg, John (Helen) Herbst, Karl Herbst, Sr., Joseph (Wendy) Herbst, James (Beth) Herbst, Sr., William (Denise) Herbst and Leo (Lori) Herbst, Sr. Also surviving are nineteen grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. The family would like to thank the staff of the 5th floor at St. Mary's Hospital and Kim from ICU, for all of the care they gave to Joe during his stay.
Funeral services will be Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. at New Comer-Cannon Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Rd., Colonie (Rt. 155-south of Central Ave). Calling hours will be Monday from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery, Glenmont. Memorial contributions may be made to the N.Y.S. Fallen Firefighters Memorial Fund in memory of Joseph J. Gruber.