James "Jim" Michael Gruttner, a retired Civil Engineer for the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, passed away after succumbing to cancer on Thursday morning, April 9, 2026. He was 67 years old.

Jim was born in Boston, Massachusetts, was the son of Francis "Bud" and Marie Gruttner, and grew up in Dorchester.

Jim had two distinct careers, the first as a finish carpenter. He worked on several older homes in Brookline and throughout Boston, gaining a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship of older homes and a keen attention to detail. This knowledge remained useful throughout his life as he worked on his own home, as well as those of family and friends—building cabinetry, furniture, decks, additions, and much more. If you needed something built, he could do it with ease and always with the utmost care & quality. His workshop in his basement was something to be envied.

Jim's second career was with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation as a Civil Engineer, where he proudly worked for over 33 years before retiring in July 2023. He had a strong passion for roadwork and bridges, believing that every bridge was unique, with its own demands and needs. He worked throughout the state on various jobs, including the Zakim Bridge in Boston and the Commerce Way on- and off-ramps & bridges in Woburn. One of his favorite projects was the historic Rocks Village Bridge, connecting Haverhill and West Newbury. It is a swing bridge that contains the oldest movable span among all bridges presently under Mass Highway purview. He was also a great mentor in the workplace, always wanting to pass along his knowledge and see his team grow & succeed.

Jim was a proud member of the Massachusetts Organization of State Engineers and Scientists ("MOSES"). While he loved his work, he especially valued the camaraderie he shared with his colleagues, many of whom became close friends both on and off the job. They loved attending sporting events and playing golf together, forming lasting friendships along the way.

Jim had a number of interests and hobbies. Working around his home was a constant project. He was the king of DIY; unless a special license was required, Jim always had a can-do approach to getting things done. By combining the skills he learned as a young carpenter with the analytical mindset of an engineer, he understood how things worked—and often how they could be improved. His yard also brought him great joy, and he happily spent hours tending to it each week. He had a passion for food as well, always appreciating a good afternoon lunch (or a "luncheon" as he often called it) with his wife and daughter, especially by the water where he could enjoy the view.

He was an avid golfer and often played with his brother, Fran, his DOT buddies, and friends. He enjoyed playing a wide variety of courses, and never felt the need to stick to just one. He appreciated both the relaxation of golf and, just as much, the chance to grab lunch and a drink afterward at the "19th hole." He also loved fishing, whether on Cape Cod near his parents' home or alongside his brother and cousin.

Jim was a loyal New England sports fan and held a nostalgic belief that sitting on his deck with his dog, listening to a game on a portable radio, was the best—and only—way to truly appreciate the Red Sox.

Jim's life revolved around his family. As a youth, he cherished time with his parents, brother, and sisters, especially during vacations to Lake Winnipesaukee. He loved spending time on Cape Cod where his parents resided, and later carried those traditions into his own family, sharing his love of the water through trips back to the Cape and Lake Winnipesaukee.

Jim met his wife, Mary Ann, through mutual friends at 'The Pier' dance club in Boston. They married in 1988 and settled in Lynnfield in 1990. Together, they built a wonderful life as a couple and then as parents. Jim felt especially blessed to welcome his daughter, Kendall, into the family. Although he was outnumbered by the women in the house, he happily went along for the ride. He became a proud "Dance Dad," always in the audience for Kendall's performances. Being her dad was something he took immense pride in—she lovingly referred to him as her best friend. Above all else, he was her biggest supporter, and everything he did was for her.

Jim lived a full and meaningful life. He approached each day with consistency, diligence, and thoughtfulness, while never taking things too seriously and always staying true to himself. He had a great sense of humor, was naturally funny, and was always quick with a one-liner, you could always count on him for a laugh. He was humble and a straightforward person in the best possible way.

Jim faced his cancer diagnosis with strength and determination, committed to fighting it every step of the way. Despite his fight, the odds were not in his favor. He passed peacefully with his family at his bedside.

He will be lovingly remembered as a thoughtful, devoted husband and father. He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.

Jim was the beloved husband of Mary Ann (Majchrzak) Gruttner for 37 years. Their 38th wedding anniversary is next month. He was the loving father of Kendall Gruttner of Lynnfield. He was the son of the late Francis "Bud" and Marie Gruttner. He was the caring brother of Liz McGowan & her husband Eddie of East Bridgewater, Maureen Tutungian & her husband Gary of Bellingham, and the late Fran Gruttner. He was the brother-in-law of John & Karen Majchrzak, Tery & Steve Berardinelli, and Kris & Rob Hickey. Jim was also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Visiting hours will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn Street, Burlington, MA on Tuesday, April 14 from 4 to 7 p.m. and will conclude with a funeral service at the funeral home at 7 p.m.

Memorials in Jim's name may be made to the American Cancer Society .