Kay was born on November 25, 1932, in Chariton, Iowa to Durward and Lessie Rhoades McMannis. She attended rural schools in Lucas County before moving to Newton in the early 1940s. She was a proud member of the Newton High School Class of 1951, organizing class reunions and keeping classmates in touch with one another. On April 11, 1953, she was married to Ramon D. Gruhn in Newton. They lived in Kellogg before moving to the Rock Creek area to begin working together on a family farming operation that continues today. Kay's family of five was her pride and life's priority. She was an active member of the Kellogg United Methodist Church and the United Methodist Women. She was recently recognized by the church for her efforts for the UMW missions and projects. Kay loved reading, cooking for her family, and sending cards and letters of friendship to her many acquaintances. Those left to carry on Kay's caring and generous spirit are her husband of 55 years, Ramon Gruhn of Grinnell; her children, Cindy (Ron) Deppe of Grinnell, Pam (Bill Doud) Gruhn of Kellogg, Scott Gruhn of Grinnell, Brian (Michelle) Gruhn of Kellogg and Kirk Gruhn of Kellogg; six grandchildren, Keri Henderson, Brent Deppe, Nathen Deppe, Bradley Gruhn, Brennan Gruhn and Michael Gruhn; and one great granddaughter, Reese Henderson; and several beloved cousins and special friends. Kay died on Monday, March 31, 2008, at Grinnell Regional Medical Center. She was 75 years of age, and she was preceded in death by her parents; grandparents; aunts and uncles. Memorials may be directed to the Kellogg United Methodist Women and Grinnell Hospice.