Walter Krueger

Whether it was with a smile on his face or a mischievous glint in his eye, Walter Krueger always had a handshake or a hug for whomever he met. Walt passed away on Friday, August 2, 2013 from cancer in Longmont, Colorado after 88 years of lifting the spirits of those around him. He is survived by his wife of 64 years Leona; daughters Debbie Krueger, husband James Dallke and Rita Decker, husband Don Decker; and sons Richard, Terry, wife Linda, Jerry, wife Mary, Tom (deceased) and Shawn Krueger. He also enjoyed getting to know and sharing his love with 17 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren. Walt and Leona came to Colorado by way of Golva, North Dakota where they met, fell in love, and decided to raise a bundle of kids where jobs were plentiful and the air a bit more “elevated”. Longmont was the place to settle down. Managing a grain elevator may have seemed tame compared to serving as a tail gunner in a B-24 bomber, but Walt kept the marriage lively after the war by partnering with Leona on the dance floor, in card playing groups, sight-seeing the United States in an RV, and together in joint business ownerships. (You may recall grabbing a burger and a shake at “Walt’s Patio Drive-in” on Main St. back in the day.) A wonderful highlight in Walt’s life was when he graduated high school in 2002. “Come again?” you ask. Yes, Walt’s education was interrupted by WW2. He was given an honorary diploma and allowed to walk with his grandson Paul in cap and gown to receive his honor five decades later in Longmont High’s ceremony. Family has played the biggest role in Walt’s life. He was one of nine children himself. His own seven children kept him hopping. “Hoppin’ Mad” or “Hoppin’ Happy”-- many times the moods just overlapped. Walt had a big heart for them all. Family, gathering several times a year at Walt and Leona’s home in Longmont, is what fueled Krueger Family closeness when miles separated siblings who’d gone their adult ways. If you’re able to join us, please gather at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, August 23, 2013 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 323 Collyer St. Longmont, Colorado 80501 for a celebration of Walt’s wonderful life. There will be lunch and a reception to follow at the church. All are welcome. Memorial contributions may be made to TRU Community Care/ Hospice, 2594 Trailridge Drive East, Lafayette, Colorado 80026. Arrangements have been entrusted to Carroll-Lewellen Funeral & Cremation Services. Service Information A service summary is not available