Richard J. Kruse, age 70, of Sheboygan, died on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at the Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice. He was born in Menomonee Falls, WI, on December 8, 1954, to the late Lawrence and Marion Lietzau Kruse.
He attended local schools and graduated from Sheboygan North High School in 1973. On November 21, 1981, Richard was united in marriage to his best friend, Susan E. Leibham in Sheboygan. Richard was employed with the City of Sheboygan for 40 years, retiring in 2011.
He was a member of the Sheboygan Pine Club, and he enjoyed spending time at Memory Matters in Sheboygan Falls. Richard liked golfing with his brother Joe, remodeling, playing cards, especially sheepshead, and camping. He was also an avid Packers, Brewers, Badgers, and Bucks fan and did not miss watching any of those teams on TV.
Survivors include his wife, Susan Kruse, of Sheboygan; three sons, Jason (Michelle) Kruse, Michael (Amanda) Kruse, both of Madison, and Greg (Katlyn) Kruse, of Milwaukee; four grandchildren, Clay, Sam, Gabe, and Bella; a sister, Marilyn (Charlie) Cornell, of Sheboygan; his brothers, Jim Kruse, of Sheboygan, and Joe (Debbie) Kruse, of Appleton. Many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends survive. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Robert and Ken Kruse, and a sister-in-law, Frances Kruse.
In accordance with the family’s wishes, a private graveside service for Richard will take place at Wildwood Cemetery in Sheboygan.
A heartfelt thank you is extended to the staff at the Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice, and the home care nurses, Hope and Wendy, for the compassion and care that was given to Richard.
The Reinbold-Novak Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.reinboldfh.com
I am very sorry to hear about Rich he was a great friend and will be missed. I hope you don’t forget about all his friends because his friends are your friends and will have your back hope to run into you soon