Gerald James Kruse, age 86, formerly of 2806 Forest Avenue, Two Rivers, currently residing at Northland Lodge, passed away peacefully on Sunday evening, Oct. 18, 2009, at Aurora Medical Center, Manitowoc County.

Gerald was born June 6, 1923, in Two Rivers, son of the late Otto and Eva Morency Kruse He served his country in the U.S. Air Force during WWII. On Sept. 27, 1947, Gerald married the former Carol Klein. He retired from Invincible Metal Furniture, Manitowoc after 33 years. He was a former president of the Two Rivers Eagle's Club and president of the union at Paragon Electric Company. Gerald was well known for his "goonie birds" which he constructed out of recyclable materials. He also enjoyed home movies and creating them. Gerald loved trips with his wife in the motor home traveling to Texas. He loved the song "Wipe Out", dancing and camping. Gerald especially loved his grandchildren, great-grandchildren and spending time with his family. Birthdays and anniversaries were very important to him and spending time with that special person on their special day.

Survivors include his wife: Carol Kruse, Two Rivers; two daughters and sons-in-law: Gail and Gary Zahn, Two Rivers; Mary Ellen "Molly" and David Schultz, Francis Creek; one son and daughter-in-law: Lee and Rosie Kruse, White Lake; five grandchildren: Ricky (Wendy) Zahn, Manitowoc; Kelly (special friend Terri Johnson) Zahn, Manitowoc; Stacie (Matt) Herman, Simla, Colo.; Eric (Brenda) Schultz, Francis Creek; Sara Kruse, Whitewater; five great-grandchildren: Jordan and Carter Zahn, Maddie Herman and Samm and Zachary Schultz; two brothers: John Kruse and Glenn Kruse, both of Two Rivers; and one sister: Susie Kruse, Two Rivers; brother-in-law and sister-in-law: Roger and Charlotte Klein, Two Rivers. Nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends also survive. He was preceded in death by two brothers: Kenneth Kruse and Lyle Kruse; and one sister: Gretchen Christoffel.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 23, 2009, at St. Peter the Fisherman Catholic Church, Two Rivers. Officiating at the Mass of Christian Burial will be the Rev. William O'Brien. Burial will immediately follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, Two Rivers.

The family will greet relatives and friends on Thursday, Oct. 22, 2009, from 4 to 8 p.m., at Klein & Stangel Funeral Home, Two Rivers. A prayer service will be held at 7:30 p.m. led by Fr. Bill. Visitation will continue on Friday, Oct. 23, 2009, at St. Peter the Fisherman Catholic Church from 9 to 10:15 a.m.

The Klein & Stangel Funeral Home is assisting the Kruse family with arrangements.

Herald Times Reporter

Oct. 21, 2009