In Loving Memory
Anthony Scott Gruninger
4/3/1993 — 6/1/2026
Partnered-Hearts
A Life Remembered
Obituary
Beloved son, brother, uncle, friend, Anthony Scott Gruninger passed away on June 1st, 2026, at age 33 in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Anthony (Tony) is survived by his parents, Karen and Wayne Gruninger, Sisters Kanoe (Parker Sr.) and Mele (Cameron), brother Garrett (Kylie), nieces Quincy, Tilley, Sloane, Phoebe, Rudy, nephews Parker Jr., Conway, Steele, Everett, Taz, Sunny. His family and many close friends will miss Anthony’s loving, caring, and giving nature. Anthony made every gathering more meaningful and fun. He always put others ahead of himself and was quick to serve family, friends, and even strangers.
Anthony was born on April 3rd, 1993, in Mesa Arizona. He and his family are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He attended Montessori School, Val Vista Lakes Elementary, Highland Jr, High, and graduated from Highland High School in 2011. Anthony served a full-time mission in Torreon, Mexico from 2012 - 2014. After returning from his mission, he attended Gilbert Community College and worked at the Henry Brown Buick GMC dealership where Ben Brown mentored him in business success. Anthony had an entrepreneurial spirit and was soon buying cars and houses as investments. The talent for recognizing business opportunities became a passion and the driving force for earning both money and deep, long-lasting relationships. Along the way, Anthony met Jason Breinholt and following in his mother’s footsteps, became licensed as a mortgage broker and worked at Jason’s company, Fairway Mortgage.
Anthony loved to travel and had the opportunity to visit many beautiful parts of the world like Iceland, Egypt, the British Isles, Canada, and many US states. Above all, he loved Hawaii, and his Polynesian heritage. When he passed away, he was in the place that he loved, doing what he loved, for and with people he loved.
Anthony found inspiration in what he read, what he did, and who he was with, and he inspired others to do and be better. The world was a better place when he was in it and is a better place because of the short time he was here. To say he will be missed does not do justice to the heartbreaking loss felt by many. Anthony’s gift was to love and lift everyone. His life was an example of the pure Love of Christ.
Anthony made us laugh, and his laugh made us laugh harder. We feel honored and blessed to have shared 33 years with an extraordinary young man and cherish memories that will last forever.
A viewing will be held Friday, June 19, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints located at 1005 N. Voyager Dr., Gilbert.
Funeral services will be held at the same location on Saturday, June 20, starting at 10:00 AM,
Service Details
Gatherings in remembrance
Viewing
Friday, June 19, 2026 · 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
1005 North Voyager Drive, Gilbert, AZ, 85234
Service
Saturday, June 20, 2026 · 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
1005 North Voyager Drive, Gilbert, AZ, 85234
Messages of Love
From family and friends
Geovanni Escamilla
June 26, 2026
Mi querido amigo, mi corazón se siente triste hasta la muerte, desde el primer momento, que llegue a la casa de misión, y tu entraste, sentí que tu serías el que iba a entrenarme, me siento tan bendecido, por haber compartido mucho momentos agradables contigo, siempre traías una sonrisa que contagiaba a todos, yo fui un mejor misionero, gracias a ti. Hasta que nos volvamos a ver a mi Querido amigo Gruninger, estoy muy seguro que en donde te encuentras sigues influyendo con aquellos que te rodean. Te amo mucho mi querido Amigo.
Colleen Mendoza (Formerly Brackenridge)
June 22, 2026
I just found out about Tony. I taught him at Highland Junior High School (Spanish). He was so funny, positive, and just a great guy. He made me laugh almost every day with his funny faces and the things he would say. He always made every day so much brighter and I have thought of him often over the years.
My love and prayers to his family and loved ones.
T. Wyatt Brazell
June 21, 2026
I wanted to reach out and offer my heartfelt condolences to you and your family.
Tony and I were MTC companions and later served together in the Torreón Mission. Elder Gruninger was the best companion I ever had and became one of my closest friends throughout our mission. Looking back, I was a bit of a knucklehead in the MTC and probably not the easiest companion. I didn’t always take language study as seriously as I should have, and I would often struggle through our practice lessons, leaving Tony to carry most of the load. His language skills were incredible, but what stood out even more was his patience with me.
Tony loved to have fun, and those two and a half months we spent together in the MTC were some of the most enjoyable of my mission. His positive attitude and enthusiasm helped me become a better missionary and taught me how to enjoy the work while still working hard.
Once we were in Mexico, we stayed in touch throughout the mission. We would always call each other on transfer night to find out where the other was going. We both served as district leaders, then zone leaders, and eventually trainers during our final months. No matter where we were, I always considered him a dear friend.
I am truly saddened by his passing, but I will always remember him as someone who was full of life, full of adventure, and full of love for others. I will forever be grateful for his example, his friendship, and the influence he had on my life.
I am also grateful to your family for the kindness you showed me. I still remember how you took care of me in the MTC and how, whenever you sent Tony a package, there always seemed to be something included for me as well. That generosity meant a lot and is something I have never forgotten.
Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
With love,
Wyatt Brazell
Pahorany Alcántara
June 21, 2026
Dear Anthony’s family and friends, we are with you!
We send you a big hug and wish that you may feel the love of our Heavenly Father.
I remember Elder Gruninger with deep admiration, respect, and love. He has been an excellent man, always exemplary.
We served in the same mission, in the same ward, district, and zone. Thanks to his leadership, we were inspired to become more like Christ.
Thank you for everything, Anthony and family!From Mexico, with love…
Pahorany Alcántara and family 🤍
Caroline
June 20, 2026
Tony is one kindest person I ever met around other friends. He makes people feel loved and seen who you are today. He brings so much light, joy, and laughter wherever he goes by making new friends I’m so grateful for meeting him around my friends. Thanks for the fun memories. We love you so much!
RANDY HERNANDEZ
June 20, 2026
Dear family and friends of Thony,
It is with a heavy heart and a grateful soul that I write these words in honor of my dear companion, Anthony S. Gruninger.
Thony was more than a fellow missionary — he was a teacher, a friend, and a living example of what it means to walk in faith. Through his example, he showed me how to embrace the mission with joy and to recognize the small, quiet gifts that God places in our path as tender mercies. Those lessons have never left me.
I will carry you with me always, Thony — your laughter, your wisdom, and yes, your legendary salsa, which I feel honored to have tasted. You had a gift for making life fuller and sweeter for everyone around you.
Until we meet again before our King, dear brother — rest in peace. You are loved. You are remembered. You are missed.
With love and deep admiration,
Randy from Guatemala
Steve Beck
June 19, 2026
The world needs more Anthony Gruninger's! His vibrant personality, kindness, and serving spirit blessed the lives of all in his path. He is one of the great ones and will be greatly missed.
Nickelle Mickelsen
June 19, 2026
Anthony was one of a kind. The kind of person you naturally gravitate to because he radiates good energy. Funny, easy to talk to, kind, and adventurous.
I’m sad I won’t be able to see him again, laugh with him.
When we were young (wow almost 20 years ago) Miranda, Anthony, and I took a road trip from Arizona to Mexico with our grandmas. We had the best time! I hope he’s reminiscing with Loretta and June now. I have no doubt he’s at peace and happy as ever. He will be missed down here.
Miranda Tilley
June 19, 2026
Some of my favorite memories are with Anthony.
Summer days spent on the river at my parent’s backyard with you all (I can still taste the Stokes’ fried chicken and watermelon) and hear everyone’s laugh. The time when Grandma Tilley took Nickelle and I to Arizona and we drove to Mexico with Anthony and Aunt Loretta. Grandma rented us jet skis to ride in the ocean and rangers to ride around on the sand dunes. Us three cousins hunkered down in the condo with all the curtains shut because it was so hot and we’d watched movies all day long. Another one from a couple of years ago was when Anthony not only let me and my friends stay at his home but he gave up his bed and slept on the couch for us. From all of these memories, the thing I’ll miss most is the smile that reaches his eyes and his laugh.
I will cherish my memories of him forever, I love you all so much and I’ll be tuning in on the zoom link.
Marilyn ♥️
June 19, 2026
I say this with my all my heart and I know you know now I love you Tony and you are missed deeply from our family. ❤️ It won’t be the same without you here you’re a true angel that was on earth ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
Jesus
June 19, 2026
I’m sorry to your family .This is a major loss we all won’t get over. I saw you as a true friend and a brother.My son misses you so much.My whole family is missing you.We can’t believe you’re gone.Rest in peace amigo.
Scott LeSueur
June 19, 2026
Tony was more than a friend. He was like family, to everyone he knew. His carefree attitude, his love for everyone, his work ethic, his friendship, his laugh, all things that will be impossible to replace and missed so much. All the late nights hanging out, the trips we’ve been on with the boys, the parties, the memories. He will be missed more than words can describe.
I love you buddy!
Maria Salter
June 18, 2026
I am so deeply sorry for your loss❤️
Anthony was always so sweet and friendly.
Mariah
June 18, 2026
Tony genuinely had more friends than anyone I know— and every single one of them were deep, meaningful relationships. He knew how to connect with people on such a special level and make you feel seen.
Tony sold me my first car. I remember my dad being apprehensive when I said I could get a car from my friend, thinking he could find me a better deal. He was completely shocked when Tony gave us the price. Just a tiny example of how important it always was to Tony to treat everyone in his life like one of his closest and most important friends— I can’t imagine how many people got the Family discount at Henry Brown from Tony haha.
I will miss his laugh and his kindness so much ❤️
Jack
June 18, 2026
I remember Anthony having an infectious laugh when we were young, he showed me how to cook an egg in a bowl of instant ramen as a kid that I still do at home from time to time. I have a lot of wonderful little memories with Anthony. I’m so grateful for them and sending love to his family, he is missed
Jerry OToole
June 17, 2026
He was the best man I know!! We love you buddy?!
Courtney Chamberlin
June 17, 2026
We met Tony through our cousins, but it didn’t take long before he felt like family. Some of our favorite memories are the vacations we spent together in Newport Beach, where Tony introduced my kids to the joy of 2 a.m. fresh donut runs to Seaside Bakery. He was always excited to see you and had a special way of making everyone feel loved and included.
One memory that has always stayed with me goes back to when Tony was in fourth grade. I was helping in the Val Vista Lakes Elementary lunchroom and noticed him wearing an apron, picking up trash, sweeping, and mopping the floors. When I asked him what he was doing, he looked up with a big, proud smile and said he helped out because he earned free lunches. Even at that young age, Tony wasn’t afraid of hard work and took pride in what he did.
Tony had a kind heart, a strong work ethic, and a gift for bringing people together. The Chamberlin family will forever cherish the laughter, the late-night donut runs, and the many wonderful memories we were blessed to share with him.
Until we meet again, Tony. You will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
Mikayla
June 17, 2026
i met tony about 20 years ago. we had a funny encounter that i remembered for years and would often look back on. somehow we ended up right back to where we met the first time. gilbert.. 20 years later. the tony i have gotten to know the last two years has been nothing short of phenomenal. he became family pretty quick. one of my husbands first true real friends. he changed our lives for the better. taught us things with just a simple conversation. over and over again. “know your worth” and a easy “who cares” is something he constantly said to us and something i will never forget. seems so small- but felt so big. he never took life TOO seriously and that was obvious. he worked hard but had such a fun and goofy way about it. a free spirit. i’ll never forget any moment, call, text message. because he fully engaged with you no matter what. the most selfless, loving, fun, wild, deep person i’ve ever met.
my heart is heavy for every single family member, friend.. because he loved all. so much. every single person in his life mattered so much to him. his life was well spent with all of you.
Mark
June 17, 2026
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Grateful to have grown up in the neighborhood with Anthony. So genuine and sincere all these years later. He’ll be missed greatly.
Nani Kama-Santee
June 17, 2026
My deepest condolences to Karen , Wayne and Ohana . Anthony was a fun loving , smart young man who chased his dreams. He will be missed. Until we meet again , A Hui Hou Anthony!!!
Love y’all
Nani Kama-Santee and family
Casper
June 16, 2026
Dear Gruningers,
I’m heartbroken to hear the news about Anthony. He was a childhood friend who I have a ton of memories growing up with. My thoughts go out to your family.
I will miss you buddy.
Brad Clayton
June 16, 2026
My heart goes out to the Gruninger family! Anthony was such a bright light and he had such a positive, “can-do” attitude. My heart is heavy and I am so grateful for Anthony’s cheerfulness and example in life. God be with you until we meet again Brother!
Eric Kama family
June 16, 2026
Dear Karen and Wayne and Ohana. We are so sorry for your loss of Anthony. He was a special person with a big heart full of Aloha spirit. He had the drive to be successful in what ever he did and accomplished in his life. I spoke with him just before his death occurred. He was happy to be in the place that he loved building his dream homes in Laiea Hawaii. We shared a lot of great times on Molokai and when we visited Arizona during the family reunion. He was a true gentleman who allowed us to stay in his vacation rental. All of us cousins had fun with him preparing Lau laus and other Hawaiian dishes for our family reunion. We will miss his wonderful personality and his loving nature. His love of the Hawaiian culture was truly inspiring. Me Ke Aloha Pumehana. Until we meet again. We love you Anthony ❤️
Cheyenne
June 16, 2026
My heart is broken knowing he is gone, I feel incredibly lucky and grateful to have called him a friend. I will forever cherish the love, friendship, and memories he shared with us. His laugh was contagious, his presence brought so much joy, and he touched the lives of everyone around him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. My heartfelt condolences go out to all of you during this incredibly difficult time. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. We love you.
Miki Nihipali Jr
June 16, 2026
Mom, I’m truly sorry for your loss. Please accept my deepest condolences during this difficult time. As both a business affiliate and a friend, I had great respect and appreciation for the relationship we shared. I’m grateful for the trust, support, and memories, and I pray for comfort, strength, and peace for you and your family in the days ahead. Nikka Pokka!!!!!! Aloha!! My Brada!!
Cole Brimhall
June 16, 2026
I have no words, he was an amazing person and he will be missed dearly! I am so sorry for the your loss. I know families are eternal and that he will always be watching over his loved ones here on earth❤️
Tony’s friend
June 16, 2026
I just miss him and I want him back
Michelle Castor
June 16, 2026
Dearest cousin Karen and 'ohana,
You are all in our prayers. May the Lord give you all strength and peace in the days ahead. Keep him always in your hearts and memories.
I will always remember Anthony when you all came to Molokai, he was such a gentleman with a beautiful minoaka and a heart filled with aloha.
We love you all. God bless.
The Castor 'ohana
Tami Hardy
June 16, 2026
I am so heartbroken to hear about Anthony. He stole my heart when I had him in class in 5th grade. My prayers go out to the whole family. Always in my heart Anthony.
McKenna
June 16, 2026
Tony has the kindest heart of anybody I know. He makes people feel seen and loved. He brings so much light, joy, and laughter wherever he goes. I’m so grateful for the memories we made together, and for the time I got to love him.. so so deeply.
Patti Lilly
June 16, 2026
I will miss Anthony’s hugs and his big beautiful smile. He always made you feel like you could accomplish anything with his positive attitude and encouragement. You will be missed my friend. Till we meet again. I expect a big hug.
Preston Riggs
June 16, 2026
We just lost the world’s most valuable friend.
Tony genuinely cared about everyone around him. He showed it through his actions, his generosity, and his kindness. He had a way of making people feel valued, appreciated, and most of all… LOVED.
We should all strive to be a little more like Tony.
I sure will miss you, brother. Until we meet again.
Love,
Preston Riggs
Marc Sulit - PH (TaskMasters)
June 16, 2026
The words “Mistah Marc” during our Google Meets will never be the same without hearing you say them. It still feels unreal that you’re gone.
I was looking forward to finally meeting you next month, sharing stories, laughing together, and building even more memories beyond work. That opportunity was taken too soon, and it breaks my heart.
Thank you for your acceptance, your kindness, your encouragement, and for being more than just a business partner you were a true friend and a brother. You made people feel valued, and I will always be grateful for the way you welcomed me into your life.
Until we meet again, brother.
Gary Stapley
June 16, 2026
Anthony, you were born of goodly parents. Your positive, uplifting personality was always a joy to be around. Thank you for ALL the many things you did to help Nanci, myself and our family. Especially the chips and salsa, even though I know your Mom did most of the work! Rest in peace and I can't wait to see you again. Hopefully not to soon...
Tony
June 15, 2026
I already miss you, Buddy. I am so grateful to have known you and to have learned so much from such a dear friend. You were wise beyond your years, and April birthdays will never be the same without you. Nothing will be the same without you. I love you, brother, and I take comfort knowing you are in the best place now. Until we meet again....Love you!
❦
Provided by
Gilbert Memorial Park Funeral Home and Cemetery