Jan 8, 2026Pioneer in Michigan commercial russet growing dies at 81
Former potato farmer Robert “Bob” Gruesbeck of Eaton Rapids, Michigan, has died at age 81.
Gruesbeck and his wife, Barbara, were among the first commercial growers of russet potatoes in the state, according to the Michigan Potato Industry Commission.
Gruesbeck died on Jan. 2.
“He was primarily a potato farmer, with humble beginnings in onion and mint farming,” according to his obituary. “He was able to turn the family farm towards a more profitable path with potatoes and eventually added corn and soybeans.”
