Mark Richard Kruse (1957-2021)

KRUSE

Posted By: Ken Wright (email)
Date: 8/20/2021 at 08:53:46

Mark Richard Kruse, 64, of Tipton, (oftentimes called "Doc" by his friends) passed away Aug. 18, 2021. A memorial service will be held Saturday, Aug. 28, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Tipton, with visitation at 10 a.m. and service at 11 a.m. Online condolences may be shared at Fry Funeral Home.com

Mark was born July 19, 1957, to Dr. Otto and Verna Kruse in Tipton. He graduated from Tipton High School, attended Kirkwood Community College, then survived Guillain-Barre. He fought hard and was able to come back from total paralysis to walk again. He worked as a mechanic, landscaper, farm hand, shoe repair and sales, and later worked at Kruse Konstruction with his brothers.

Mark was selfless, a kind and giving soul. Those who were fortunate to know him knew of his huge heart and that he would do anything for you. Many in the community had the good fortune of enjoying his many gifts of groceries, fresh produce from the garden or mushrooms he worked hard to find. He enjoyed the simple life watching the geese land in the pond, new wood ducks and their babies and the many woodland creatures. He knew no strangers and was a great conversationalist with all ages.

He was artistic, played piano and harmonica. He enjoyed fishing and teaching his nieces and nephews to fish. He was a member of the Lions Club.

He continued giving until the end where his body was donated to the deeded body program at University of Iowa.

Left to miss his humor and that special twinkle in his eyes are his mother, Verna Kruse of Tipton; brothers, Craig of Minneapolis, Minn., Bill (Pam) of Cresco, Dave (Sally) of Tipton and Eric (Kristy) of Tipton; sister, Ani (Ryan) of Mount Vernon; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Otto Kruse.

He will be greatly missed by family and friends.

Memorials can be directed to Friends of the Animals, Tipton.