Monday, November 14th, 2016
Lester Kruse
Lester E. Kruse, 84, of New Knoxville passed away at 10:33 a.m. Friday November 11, 2016, at Lima Memorial Health System, Lima.
He was born in Auglaize County on June 11, 1932 to Homer & Grace (Engle) Kruse who preceded him in death. On October 10, 1954, he married Leah Settlage, and she passed away on August 7, 2005.
He is survived by a daughter; Patricia "Patty" (Dave) Mann of Jackson Center, a son Alan (Carol) Kruse, a son-in-law Rodney "Rod" Campbell of St. Johns, nine grandchildren Ryan (Angie) Campbell, Heather (Mike) Selby, Erin (Todd) Elsass, Nancy (Troy) Schwartz, Betsy Kruse, Kurt (Kassondra Shappell) Kruse, Ashley (Erik) Stachler, Shelby (Ethan Fite) Mann, Christopher Mann, 11 great-grandchildren, a sister Lois Yinger, and a special friend Linda Miller.
He was preceded in death by a daughter Jeanne Campbell.
Lester was a 1950 graduate of New Knoxville High School. He proudly served in the U.S. Army until 1954, and then he returned home to operate his family's dairy farm.
He was a member of the American Legion Post 444, Milk Marketing Inc. - where he served two terms on the board of directors - and New Knoxville First United Church of Christ where he was an Elder, Deacon, President of the Consistory and Sunday School Superintendent.
He enjoyed camping, fishing and woodworking. He loved his family deeply and was very proud of their accomplishments.
Funeral services will begin on Wednesday, November 16, 2016, at 10:30 a.m. in the First Church of New Knoxville where Pastors Chuck Moeller and Joel Bucklin will be officiating. Burial will follow at Pilger Ruhe Cemetery with military rites being performed by the American Legion Post 444.
Friends may call from 2-8 p.m. Tuesday, November 15, 2016, at Schlosser Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Wapakoneta and one hour prior to the service at the church on Wednesday.
Memorial contributions may be directed to First Church of New Knoxville Radio Fund, American Legion Post 444, or Heifer International.
Condolences may be expressed at www.schlosserfuneralhome.com.
