Bernard O. Gruenke, Sr. dedicated his entire life to the arts. As a young man, he received a scholarship from Ms. Marie Kohler, of the Kohler company, to attend the Corcoran School of Art in Washington, D.C.

Afterwards, he joined and later purchased the renowned national art studio, Conrad Schmitt Studios, and went on to provide murals, stained glass and decorating for hundreds of churches, theaters and public buildings throughout the U.S.

He created several drawings or watercolors each day even into his 90’s. But his favorite times were working with children to help them understand that they are great artists.