Bradley Keith Gruetzner

Bradley Keith "Scoot" Gruetzner, age 42, of Victoria, Texas, passed away on Friday, the 5th day of July 2024, in Victoria, Texas. Born on Christmas Eve of 1981 in Palestine, Texas, to parents Burl and Debbie Gruetzner, Scoot was a man whose vivacious spirit and infectious smile left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Growing up in the heart of Texas, Scoot was the embodiment of friendliness and adventure. His childhood was filled with laughter, family, and a deep appreciation for the great outdoors. After graduating from Slocum high school in 2000, he answered the call to serve his country and proudly joined the United States Army. Scoot's bravery and dedication were evident as he completed two tours of duty. On November 15, 2006, during his second deployment in Iraq, Scoot's courage was tested when his Humvee was hit by an IED. Despite sustaining multiple injuries, his resilient spirit never wavered.

Returning home as a decorated veteran, Scoot continued to live life with a sense of purpose and adventure. He found solace and joy in hunting, fishing, and embracing the beauty of nature. Scoot's love for the outdoors was matched only by his passion for making others laugh. With a smile that could "warm your heart," he never missed an opportunity to bring joy to those around him.

Scoot's dedication to service extended beyond his military career as he devoted time to helping fellow veterans. He volunteered with Warriors Weekend, an organization close to his heart, where he contributed to improving the lives of those who had served. His commitment to his fellow servicemen and women was a testament to his caring and generous nature.

Left to cherish Scoot's memory are his wife, Angie Gruetzner; his proud parents, Burl and Debbie Gruetzner; his precious daughter, Brayden Gruetzner; his loving stepdaughter, Athena Boudreaux; his sweet sister, Julie Yeager, along with her husband David and their children, Madison and David Yeager. He will be deeply missed by his loving grandfather, Bob Gruetzner, his uncles, Jason Gruetzner, and David and Sherry Fletcher, his aunt, Cindy Gruetzner, and a vast community of friends and comrades. Scoot now joins his grandmother, Sandra Gruetzner; his grandfather, Frank Fletcher; and his uncle, Brad Gruetzner who held a special place in his heart, in eternal peace.

For friends in the Victoria area, Scoot’s life will be celebrated on Saturday, the 13th day of July 2024 at ten o’clock in the morning with military honors at Son Valley Ranch, 8793 US 87, Victoria, Texas.

In honor of his extraordinary life, a memorial service to celebrate Scoot's legacy will be held at two o’clock in the afternoon, on Saturday, the 20th day of July 2024 at Evangelistic Temple, Palestine, Texas where family, friends, and those whose lives he impacted are welcome to share in the remembrance of a man who was truly larger than life.

Friends are invited to visit with the family one hour prior to the start of the service at Evangelistic Temple.

Those honored to serve as honorary pallbearers are Joey Tritico, Chantz Brooks, Terry Loviette, Josh Altman, Chris Sbrusch, Michael Martin, Bruce Johnson, and Ricky Smith.

In lieu of customary remembrances, memorials in memory of Bradley Gruetzner can be directed towards Warrior’s Weekend, 3603 Miori Ln., Victoria, Texas 77901 or Helping a Hero, www.secure.helpingahero.org.

Memorial services for Bradley Keith “Scoot” Gruetzner are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas. 

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