Craig Garet Grudem

Craig Garet Grudem, age 76, of Zumbrota, MN, a beloved husband, father, grandpa, brother, and friend was called to his heavenly home on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. 

Craig was born on August 19, 1947, at the Red Wing Hospital in Red Wing, MN, to Clifford and Helen (Tiedemann) Grudem. He was baptized on September 21, 1947, at Christ Lutheran Church in Zumbrota, where he was a lifelong member. He lived and grew up in Zumbrota and graduated from Zumbrota High School in 1965. After high school, he attended Rochester Junior College and Mankato State University in Mankato, MN. He graduated in 1969 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration. On October 21^st, 1972, Craig was united in marriage to Judy Berg at Lands Lutheran Church in Zumbrota. He worked for Nestle Foods as a Sales Representative for over 35 years until he retired in 2014. This career brought Craig and his family much enjoyment over the years and many friendships.

Craig always had a smile on his face, Laughter was a big part of Craig’s life, he loved to joke around and bring a smile to anyone’s face.  He was an avid sports fan, he loved watching and attending Vikings, Twins, Timberwolves, North Stars, and Wild games. He especially loved watching and attending the Zumbrota-Mazeppa Cougars games where his kids and grandkids played baseball, football, basketball, and dance team. He made it a priority to attend every event and rarely missed any games.

He was a devoted husband to his wife, Judy, and father to his son, Brian and his wife, Judy, and his son, Josh, and his wife, Lindsey. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Judy Grudem; son, Brian (Judy) Grudem of Zumbrota and grandchildren, Katelyn (Tj) McBryde, Tyler Grudem, Hailey Grudem, and Kevin Grudem; son, Josh (Lindsey) Grudem of Wanamingo and grandson, Percy Grudem; his sister, Carol Gates; his brother, John (Elaine) Grudem. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Helen and many sisters and brothers-in-law.

Memorial service will be at 11 a.m. on Thursday, April 18, 2024, at Christ Lutheran Church with Reverend Wayne Schoch officiating. Visitation will be from 5 until 8 p.m. on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at the Mahn Family Funeral Home, Larson Chapel in Zumbrota and for one hour prior to the service at the church on Thursday. Burial will be at the Zumbrota Cemetery.