Ivan's Funeral Service Video

Ivan John Gruetzmacher, age 87 of New London, passed away peacefully with his loving wife by his side on Thursday, July 11, 2024 at St. Joseph Residence in New London.  Ivan was born on July 3, 1937 in New London the oldest of three children to the late John and Leota (Popp) Gruetzmacher. He was raised in New London and attended New London Schools, graduating from Washington Senior High. Ivan went on to attend UW River Falls and graduated from the School of Agriculture with his undergraduate degree.  Right out of college, Ivan accepted a job with the US Department of Agriculture in the Department of Pure Food and Drug Administration.  He also went on to obtain his master's degree in Agricultural Education from UW Madison.  Ivan's teaching career spanned over 40 years and included 4H, FFA and 25 years teaching at Fox Valley Technical College.  In addition to teaching, Ivan farmed close to 700 tillable acres in the Town of Caledonia, comprising of the original Gruetzmacher farm that was established in 1892. In addition to being an educator, Ivan was a Pioneer Seed Representative for 29 years. He and Jan were members of the Friendship Force and traveled the world, visiting over 80 countries during their 57 years of marriage.  They also had the opportunity to host several foreign exchange students over the years. Ivan was an avid Packer Backer and held season tickets for over 50 years. He was a faithful member of Emanuel Ev. Lutheran Church in New London. His favorite time of year was fall.  Ivan loved the beautiful colors, hunting and of course a bountiful harvest.  Lastly, Ivan was a Korean War Era veteran.

Those left to cherish Ivan's memory are his wife, Jan; sisters, Ardes (Cliff) Kohl and Helen (Carl) Grisar; nephews and nieces, Allen (Melanie) Grisar, Christy (Chuck) Kudy, Ben (Barb) Pusheck, Bernie Pusheck and Bob (Tammi) Pushek, along with a special cousin, Vicki Humann.  Additionally, Ivan is survived by many great-nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Ivan was preceded in death by his parents and brother and sister-in-law, William and Betty Pusheck.

The Memorial Service for Ivan will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 22, 2024 at Cline & Hanson Funeral Home in New London with Rev. William Heiges officiating.  A gathering of family friends will take place from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service.  Full Military Honors will be held at the funeral home after the service.  Burial will be in St. John's Cemetery, Town of Caledonia.

Ivan's family wishes to gratefully thank the staff at St. Joseph Residence, Annette Meyer, as well as Randy and Joy Werner for their care and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be directed to Emanuel Lutheran's Organ Fund or St. Joseph Residence in New London.