William R. "Bill" Grunau

William R. "Bill" Grunau, loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather, age 91 of White Bear Lake, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Saturday evening, January 29, 2022. Bill was preceded in death by wife, Mary Grunau; and by his parents, Hans and Florence Grunau. Survived by his sister, Candace (Dewey) Swalheim; children, Robert Grunau and Patricia Cygan; grandchildren, Ashley (Tony) Wirz, David (Kayla) Grunau, Brittany (Max) Gaede and Kenzie Cygan; great grandchildren, Ronan Gaede and Eli Wirz; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Bill had an extraordinary career as a pilot. He did everything from flying crop dusters, to being an instructor, a corporate pilot, and flying a US Vice President. Bill was Chief Pilot for the Minnesota Department of Transportation where he flew many governors, legislators, and state officials. He enjoyed and knew everything about airplanes, flying, and always loved telling stories of his experiences. Bill also enjoyed fishing with his grandkids and playing cards with family and friends. Bill is loved by many and he will be missed by all. A special thanks to Cerenity Transitional Care for their loving care and support. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday April 2nd at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion St., Hastings, with Visitation at 12pm and Memorial Service at 12:30pm. Interment will follow at Lakeview Cemetery in White Bear Lake. Arrangements are being completed by Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings.