Paul S. Gruenig, 71, of Farmington died Wednesday, Jan. 27 at Oak Valley Hospital.

Born Feb. 11, 1938, he was a native of Portland, OR. He lived in Farmington 30 years.

Mr. Gruenig was a telephone technician for SBC for 31 years.

In his earlier years, he was an avid hunter and dog trainer. As his kids got older, he became very involved in junior and high school rodeos. He spent most summers hauling kids or in the practice arena.

He spent his retirement years running cattle and visiting with friends and customers who bought tack and feed from him.

He is survived by his wife, Elissa Gruenig of Farmington; children, Heather Duvall and Brian Gruenig, both of Farmington, and Debbie Gruenig Jefferson of Red Bluff; sisters, Joan Anderson and Carol Brooks, both of Oregon; six grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

There will be a gathering of family and friends from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 6 at Brian and Melanie Gruenig’s home in lieu of funeral services.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to your favorite charity or to Mr. Gruenig’s favorite: Oakdale Children’s Christmas Shopping Tour, c/o Oakdale Lions Club, P.O. Box 550, Oakdale, CA 95361.

Oakdale-Riverbank Memorial Chapels in charge of arrangements.

The Oakdale (Calif.) Leader

Feb. 3, 2010