Mary Catherine Cecilia Dunn Gruber, 89, of St. Louis, Missouri, left this world peacefully, after a courageous battle with cancer, on November 20th, 2025, with her family by her side and an abundance of love surrounding her. She was born on April 15, 1936, to the late Lillian (Chaloupecky) and James Dunn.
Mary was a devoted mother to Beth (Dan) Beato and Molly (Scott) Crawford, and a proud, joy-filled grandmother to her seven grandchildren—Kyle, Tyler, Ashley, David, Melissa, Emily, and Jessica who were the light of her life. She worked as a legal secretary at Gallop, Johnson and Neuman from 1982 to 2004. She was a member of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, involved in the Czech Hall, a volunteer at the Fabulous Fox Theatre for over 40 years, and was a part of a mall walking group, which eventually turned into the “mall talkers.” She enjoyed traveling, Tuesday movies, Sunday dinners, trips to the Casino, fresh flowers, going to the Botanical Gardens, playing dominos, sitting in the sun, reading a good book, and anything that got her out of the house and with the people she loved. More than anything, she loved being with the people who filled her life with meaning. Her greatest joy – and her deepest passion – was spending time with her family and friends.
Mary will be remembered by her contagious laugh, her bright smile, her fun-loving demeanor, and her ability to make everyone feel special. She will be cherished by all who knew her and she leaves us with hearts filled with love and memories that will stay with us forever.
Service Wednesday, November 26, 9:15 a.m. FROM KUTIS AFFTON CHAPEL, 10151 Gravois Rd to Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 17 Ann Ave. (Valley Park) for an 10:00 a.m. MASS. Interment Resurrection Cemetery. Visitation Tuesday 4:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Few in life have a friend so dear as Mary. She never failed to be welcoming and consoling. She was a little woman with a huge heart. I could tell her anything and know she’d find a way to make me feel better. Rest in peace dear friend and give Gramma a hug from me.
Aunt Mary was the sweetest, most fun-loving woman I knew. She always had a smile on her face and laughter in heart. I will miss her very much, but am happy that she is at peace. Sending our love to you, Beth and Molly, and your families.
I met Mary from the Czech Hall and also went with her and a group to the Czech Republic. She was so nice, always smiling and would talk to anyone. I would see her at the Fox too where she volunteered and I worked as a Bartender.
RIP Mary. You will be missed.
Mary was a wonderful sister in the Hibernians. R.I.P. my friend 💚☘️💚
Bless you Mary, rest in peace
Mary was my best friend. We were sister-in-laws, but treated each other like sisters. She loved her daughters and son-laws with all of her heart. Her grandchildren were next in line and she never stopped talking about them. Enjoy Heaven, Mary.
Dottie Gruber
Mary was the best! She loved everyone and was kind to all. She always showed interest in the family, asking for an update on every member and she would remember what you told her about that person, then ask how they were doing on your next call. Sharp lady!
I can imagine her in her new happy place, being pain free. Probably wearing her cute shorts and gazing around at God’s creation, especially the flowers. Mary was such a good friend and wonderful cousin to our mom, Catherine.
Rest easy Mary; forever in our ❤️’s!
SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR MOM PASSING. I REMEMBER HER FROM CHURCH AND COMING INTO LESHER’S FLOWERS. SHE WAS ALWAYS SO KIND AND SWEET! SHE LOVED SHARING STORIES OF HER FAMILY. YOU WILL ALL CARRY FOND MEMORIES OF HER IN YOUR HEART!
Mary was a sweet and kind sister-in-law. I will always remember her smiling. Although I hadn’t seen her for quite awhile I will always think of her as family
Mary will always live on in our memories as a joy to see and spend time with. Those who had the pleasure of knowing her are grateful for it and are thinking of the family that she loved so much.
My thoughts and tears are with your family. You were a wonderful, special lady that lived life to the fullest. You fought a valiant battle to stay, but God was calling you home. Rest In Peace.
Dear Mary, the dearest friend of my mom Carol! , thank you for loving deeply, your ever lasting devotion to your family and friends , and the wonderful example of what it means to live a Christian life. Memories last forever, with love John and Patty Follmer