[2] At sixteen, Gruenke was encouraged in the pursuit of art by Marie Kohler, a member of the bath fixtures company.
[3] Gruenke and Conrad Schmitt Studios furnished murals, stained glass, and decorating for churches, theatres and public buildings throughout the United States.
Over the years he introduced the new glass form to many areas around the U.S. Gruenke was also known for his work in interior decoration.
[4] Gruenke was recognized by the Stained Glass Association of America (SGAA), being named a Fellow of the organization in 1972.
[3] In 1980, Gruenke was awarded an honorary doctorate by Mount Mary College in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin.