Robert W Kruse

Robert William, son of William and Wilhelmina (Schrum) Kruse, was born September 14, 1922 at home on the farm near Aspinwall, Iowa. He attended country school until the eighth grade, then Manning High School, graduating with the class of 1940. During high school Robert was successfully involved in many athletic teams and Future Farmers of America. After he completed his education he began farming with his father, with his brother Roy and on his own near Botna. On August 25, 1945, Robert was united in marriage with Velma Steen. Three children were born to this union. Velma died in November 1981 after a lengthy illness during which time she was lovingly cared for by her husband. Robert later met and married Mary Wieland Croghan in 1989. She was the mother of five children that Robert raised as his own. He was a great father to all eight children. They lived near Templeton. Robert farmed his entire life, continuing his interest after retirement from active farming. Throughout his life he was actively involved in his children's and grandchildren's active lives, driving them to and from practices and attending all their school events. He was also interested in college and professional sporting events. Along with his family, Robert took great interest in his farm animals, including his dogs and cats. He loved telling stories and jokes and making people laugh. Robert and his family enjoyed going to dances at the Five Mile House, especially when polka and big band music was playing. They also enjoyed getting together with neighbors and friends to play cards. His children and grandchildren were his pride and joy. Robert enjoyed good health and loved being outdoors. When his health began to fail, he was cared for by his loving wife until it was no longer safe for him at home. He then entered the Manning Plaza Nursing Home in March of 2009. He died there on Thursday, December 20, 2012 at the age of 90 years, 3 months and 6 days. Preceding him in death are his parents; wife Velma in 1981 and brother Roy Kruse (Pauline and Lorraine) also in 1981. Robert is survived by his wife Mary Kruse of Manning; son Lynn Kruse of Manning, daughters Shary Arkfeld (Allan) of Dow City and Luanne Sandvik (Arlan) of Nipomo, CA; five step children: Kelly Croghan (Brenda) of Sloan, Brian Croghan (Stacie) of Templeton, Shawn Croghan (Kathy Amos) of Des Moines, Jason Croghan (Amy) of Kansas City and Jenny White (Volkan Soyulmaz) of Omaha, NE; sixteen grandchildren; six great grandchildren; sister-in-law Betty Welch of New Port Richie, FL; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Music "Beautiful Savior" "On Eagle's Wings" "Hark, the Herald Angels Sing" Congregation Carlys Stribe, Accompanist Casket Bearers ~ Grandchildren Aaron Arkfeld Andy Arkfeld Laura Arkfeld Elizabeth Arkfeld Jesse Sandvik Chelsea Sandvik Johnathan Croghan MaKayla Croghan Brandon Croghan Jessica Croghan Taylor Croghan Logan Braadt Rachel White Noah White Logan Croghan Katelyn Croghan Honorary Casket Bearers William Hoffman Kenny Arkfeld Doug Kruse Betty Peterson Bonnie Buffington Russ Stribe