Obituary of Raymond Kruse

Raymond Fredrick Kruse Jr. was born in Erie, Michigan on January 19, 1941 to the late Raymond and the late Helen (Finley) Kruse. Raymond graduated from Mason High School, attended Jackson Community College studying Accounting and Sociology. Raymond also served his country in the United States Army from 1961-1965 in Vietnam. He was a former VFW member. Raymond loved outdoor activities including fishing, boating and hunting. He enjoyed fishing the Lake Erie Pier with whomever would follow. He had a love for cooking, especially his famous hot dog sauce and baked beans. He loved and cherished his grandchildren and great grandchildren, as well as his bird Ziggy. He was a man of many hats with a great sense of humor. On December 28, 1994, Raymond married Sandy (Skiver) Harmon in Monroe. Raymond Fredrick Kruse Jr., age 71 of Monroe, passed away Friday, March 30, 2012 at St. Vincent Mercy Medical Center in Toledo, Ohio. His passing was preceded by his parents, his brother; Kenneth Kruse and a son; Tim Kruse. To cherish his memory, Raymond leaves his beloved wife Sandy Harmon-Kruse of Luna Pier; one daughter: Kimberly Kruse of Monroe; two sons: Raymond Kruse III of Monroe and Jason (Cassandra Whited) Kruse of Monroe; one step-daughter: Lori Ann (Theodis) Brooks of Plymouth; a step-son: Richard (Michelle) Harmon Jr. of Toledo; seven siblings: Norma Bishop, Shirley Blair, Janet (Jack) Reed, Carol (Bill) Reau, Judy "Peaches" Woods, James Kruse, and Tom Kruse; a sister-in-law: Helen Beth Kruse; twelve grandchildren, eight great grandchildren, and two great grandchildren on the way. Friends may gather from 5:00pm until 7:00pm, April 3, 2012 at Merkle Funeral Service, 9156 Summit Street in Erie (734) 848-5185. A Celebration of His Life will take place at 7:00pm, April 3, 2012 also at Merkle's. Reverend Paul Robb will officiate. A graveside service will be held on April 4, 2012 at the Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan with full military honors presented. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to the American Heart Association. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page.