HOPEWELL JUNCTION – Robert W. Gruden, 78, a resident of Dutchess County since 1968, passed away on November 15, 2022 at MidHudson Regional Hospital.

Born in Ossining on April 7, 1944, Robert was the son of the late Peter and Helen (Tiefinbach) Gruden. Affectionately known as the unofficial "Mayor" of the town, he owned and operated the Hopewell Plaza Barber Shop in Hopewell Junction for over 50 years. He catered to generations of area residents over the years, and enjoyed making them smile.

Robert is survived by his wife of 57 years, Gloria (Benjamin) Gruden at home; his children and their spouses, Robert and Toni Anne Gruden of LaGrange, Michael and Carol Gruden of Ocean View, DE, Jennifer Gruden and Keith Capolino of Shokan, and Megan and Harry Bagheri of Poughkeepsie; his grandchildren, Kenneth Capolino of Manassas, VA, Kristen and Daniel Agar of Shokan, Emma Gruden and her boyfriend Brian Garvilla of Pine Bush, Robert Gruden, Bella Gruden, Julian Bagheri, and Cian Bagheri; his great-grandson, Angelo Capolino; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Robert was also predeceased by his brother, Peter F. Gruden.
Calling hours will be held on Sunday from 2 – 5 pm at the McHoul Funeral Home, Inc., 895 Route 82, Hopewell Junction. A funeral service will be held on Monday at 11 am at the funeral home followed by entombment at Fishkill Rural Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, a GoFundMe account is being set up to benefit the charitable organization Peoples Place in Kingston, NY. Please consider making a donation at: GoFundMe.

Please visit Robert's Book of Memories at www.mchoulfuneralhome.com.