Thomas Ned Grutsch Obituary, Death; – Thomas Ned Grutsch, aged 69, from East Jordan, lost his life in a multi-vehicle collision on Tuesday morning on U.S. 131 in Bear Creek Township.
As reported by the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office, both deputies and the Michigan State Police were called to the scene of the accident, located south of Howard Road, at approximately 9:15 a.m.
During the investigation, authorities found that Grutsch was driving a 2007 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck southbound on U.S. 131 when he lost control due to the snowy and icy conditions. The vehicle veered into the northbound lane, where it was subsequently struck by a 2018 Freightliner semi-truck operated by a 41-year-old man from Sears. Grutsch was pronounced dead at the scene.
Additionally, a 2021 Chevrolet Express van, driven by an 81-year-old man from East Jordan, was involved in the incident as it attempted to avoid the initial crash. Undersheriff Matt Leirstein confirmed that there were no other injuries resulting from the accident. “We believe that the road conditions were the primary factor leading to the accident,” Leirstein stated.
As noted in his obituary, funeral services for Grutsch are scheduled for noon on Friday, December 13, at Gaylord E-Free Church, with the family welcoming friends starting at 10 a.m. Pastor Scott Distler will officiate the service.
