After Graduation from St. Mary’s High School in O’Neill, Ne, he joined the United States Air Force in service to his country where he began his medical career. He was in the first class of students enrolled in the University of Nebraska Medical Center Physician’s Assistant program in 1973. The first class had 29 students (15 students at Sheppard Air Force Base and 14 at the UNMC campus). They graduated from the UNMC program in 1975 with Bachelor’s degrees.
That inaugural PA class established the Nebraska Academy of Physician Assistants (NAPA) in the fall of 1975 with the leadership of several graduates. Mike as a graduate of that first class played a critical role in NAPA during the formative years. He served positions on the NAPA Board for most of his career including repeat terms as President and Treasurer. He envisioned the NAPA scholarship program and oversaw the development of the scholarship funding.
He practiced in multiple rural health settings and was instrumental in establishing rural Emergency Medical Services in western Nebraska. He continued his career in Professional and Occupational Investigations for the State of Nebraska, Department of Health and Human Services, from which he retired in 2014.
He was a civic leader serving in multiple elected and voluntary positions. He donated time and talent, especially for those less fortunate, by providing tax preparation assistance.
Mike is survived by the love of his life, Linda Jackson; two sons Michael Jr, (Chris) and their children Derek (Ana) and Colton (friend Olivia Hoffman), Jeffery (Shelley) and their children Ryan and AJ. Great-grandchildren Addilyn and Cameron. Linda’s children Brian (Penni) and their children Trey and Mia. Sarah (Geno) Velasco and their daughter Amelia, Blake (Kenzi) and their children Breckyn, Kysen and Kiya. Sister Ann (Dave) Rehbein, their children Chris and Jennifer. Great-nephews Devin Von Querner and Greyson Rehbein and Great niece Camille Rehbein.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Patrick Grutsch.
Memorials may be given to the Michael J. Grutsch Scholarship Fund at the Nebraska Association of Physician Assistants, Lincoln Community Foundation or St. John’s Catholic Church.
Burial will be at the Omaha National Cemetery with full military honors at 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, May 24, 2023.
He will be truly missed by a large number of colleagues, family and friends.