Dennis William Kruse, 80, passed away on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at his home in Kingsville, Missouri.
Dennis was born April 9, 1944 in Sedalia, Missouri, to Dennis M. and Lillian M. (Self) Kruse. He loved so many things but most of all he loved his family. Dennis married his wife, Elaine (Connell) Kruse, on May 25, 1963. Together they have three children: Sherri, Cheryl, and Brandon. Dennis accomplished so much in his life besides his family. He was a heavy equipment operator with local 101 at Belger Cartage Service for over 20 years. He was a stock car driver for many years at the local dirt tracks. His cars were ’57 Chevys that were gold with the number 213. He was quite a talented racer. He won many races and championships over his racing career. In 1984 he moved his family from Buckner, MO to Oak Grove, MO to open Kruse Wrecker Service. He and Elaine built the business from the ground up to a successful business with their children working with them throughout the years. In 2006, Dennis retired at the age of 62 and he and Elaine moved to his family farm in Kingsville, MO where they still live. Dennis loved fishing and going to the casino where he was “very lucky”. He also followed Nascar and loved his Kansas City Chiefs. He also loved working around the farm on his Bobcat, taking his great grandkids on rides in his “Green Machine”.
Dennis was preceded in death by his parents Dennis M. Kruse and Lillian Kruse, Ethel Jane Kruse (sister), Margaret Cline (sister), Phillip Cline (nephew), and James McCandless Jr.
Dennis is survived by his wife: Elaine Kruse; children: Sherri Holmberg (Chris), Cheryl Stiegemeyer (Chip), and Brandon Kruse; sister, Mary Lowe; grandchildren: Ashley Corbin (Cody), Dylan Stiegemeyer (Abby), Logan Wittman (TJ), Hannah Parker (Michael), and Dennie Wheeler (Jack); great-grandchildren: Oliver, Willie, Ellie, Carolyn, Tate, Quinn, and one on the way; and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life open house will be held at the family farm on February 8, 2025 from 12 to 5pm at 1962 NW 200th RD, Kingsville, MO 64061. Come celebrate Dennis and share your stories.
Obituary submitted by the family.
Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home, Oak Grove, MO 816-690-4441