Gilbert Kruger

Gilbert Donald “Gib” Kruger, age 82, of Packwaukee Township, Marquette County, WI, died on Wednesday, May 20, 2009 at Divine Savior Hospital in Portage, WI under the compassionate care of Dr. Amy Strain. He was born on July 13, 1926 in the Township of Harris, Marquette County, WI, the son of Jule and Amanda (Jahnke) Kruger. He served his country during World War II and achieved the rank of Corporal, receiving Army of Occupation and World War II Victory Medals. He married the former Ellen Ann Laing on November 25, 1950 in Westfield, WI. He was a certified welder for Allis Chalmers and resided in West Allis, WI until returning to Ellen’s family farm in 1968 and eventually retiring from Marquette County after 19 years of taking pride in maintaining the courthouse and its grounds. He was a longtime member of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Packwaukee and served as a Trustee for Oak Hill Cemetery, Packwaukee Township.

Gib enjoyed spending time in the woods hunting small or large game and fowl , as well as cutting wood. His love of the outdoors and hunting legacy was passed down to his children and grandson. His green thumb provided a bountiful garden harvest shared with family and friends. He was also known for his infamous sauerkraut, a tradition carried on by his son. He enjoyed visiting Devon orchards, which kept him busy peeling apples and making homemade applesauce. He always enjoyed the companionship of dogs, whether it be his own or his “grandpuppies”. One of his favorite pastimes was watching and feeding the many varieties of birds that visited his numerous feeders.

He is survived by his wife, Ellen, rural Montello; one daughter, Cynthia (John) Miller, rural Montello; one son, Donn Kruger, rural Montello; one grandchild, Austin Kruger, Westfield. He is further survived by nieces and nephews, including special nephew, Dale (Zoe) Steinhaus and other relatives. He was preceded in death by his parents, half brothers Harold (Frieda) Kruger and Elmer (Martha) Jahnke; half sister Mary (John) Campbell, special half sister, Viola (Gerald) Steinhaus; nieces Janice Boinski, Geraldine Walters and Patsy Harvey; special lifelong friend and “cohort” Vernon (Dick) Thalacker and faithful companion, Mitzie.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church Memorial Fund, Budda Box of Marquette County or Eyes of Hope Shelter.