Gary Gruben

Gary Gruben joined his Lord and Savior in Heaven on December 14, 2025.

Gary, born June 3, 1948, in Lubbock, Texas, was raised in Tulia, where he developed the values, friendships, and determination that shaped his life. A gifted athlete, Gary had the privilege of playing football under legendary Texas coach Jimmie Keeling, whose guidance helped him develop into an All-State player. Gary often expressed deep gratitude for Coach Keeling’s influence, crediting him with helping him earn a football scholarship to Texas A&M University.

At Texas A&M, Gary proudly played on the 1967 Southwest Conference Championship Team and celebrated a memorable victory over Bear Bryant’s Alabama team in the 1968 Cotton Bowl Classic. He went on to earn his BBA in Business, graduating in 1972.

On January 1, 1971, Gary married the love of his life, Princess Roberts, beginning a partnership filled with devotion, hard work, and family. He began his career farming and ranching alongside his father-in-law, Bud Roberts, in Swisher and Brisco Counties. In 1985, Gary transitioned into banking, joining the First National Bank of Tulia. His leadership and dedication later led him to the First National Bank of Eldorado in 1995. In 2003, Gary continued his distinguished career when he became the President and CEO of Cattleman’s National Bank in Johnson City.

Gary is survived by his daughter Meredith Bradley and son-in-law Honorable Charlie Bradley of Eldorado, Texas; his son Kirk Gruben and daughter-in-law Dr. Julie Gruben; and two cherished grandchildren, Parker and Grant Gruben of Allen, Texas all of whom he was very proud.

A memorial service celebrating his life will held Thursday, December 18 at 1:00 P.M. in the First Presbyterian Church of Eldorado.