A. James Gruber, 87, of Centre St., Ashland, passed away Friday, July 24, 2026, at the Emmanuel Center for Nursing, Danville. Born in Ashland, January 17, 1939, he was the son of the late Levi and Erdie (Oster) Gruber.  Jim was a graduate of the former Ashland High School, class of 1956.  Following high school, he was employed at Danny’s Drive In, Asland, for nearly 28 Years.  He later became an entrepreneur, owning Darcie-JA, Inc., a gum / vending business, including Darcie’s Sub Shop, and a Slush Puppie delivery business.  Active with the young people of the area, he coached  Ashland Little League, also was the cub master Ashland Cub Scouts, Troup #45.  Jim was a member of the Ashland Rotary, becoming District Governor, and also Christ’s United Lutheran Church. He previously served on the Ashland Borough Council, and the Ashland Water authority.  Preceding him in death was a sister, Joan Tesno.

Survivors:

Wife:  Darcie (Shuey) Gruber, married 66 years

Daughter:  Debbie Hall, Ashland

Daughter:  Donna wife of Richard Kuczawa, Lewisburg

Son:  John Gruber and his wife, Janelle (Hoenich), Pine Grove

Grandchildren: Sarah wife of Kyle Mumper, Wesley Kuczawa and his wife Anna (Neuhard), David Hall, Joanna Gruber,  Jillian Gruber,

Two Great Grandchildren, Bailey and Oliver Mumper and a baby boy due in October 2026.  

Relatives and Friends are invited to a Celebration of Jim’s Life, Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at 10:30 AM in Christ’s United Lutheran Church, 437 Airport Road, Ashland.  Officiating will be Rev Brian Beissel, pastor.  A viewing will begin at 9 AM until the service time.  Jim’s family requests in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to Christ’s United Lutheran Church.  Visit www.Fritzfuneralhome.com to share condolences with Jim’s family.  The Richard W. Fritz Funeral Home, Ashland, is in charge of funeral arrangements.