Jerry Kruse

Jerry Kruse, 77, of Bainbridge, passed away on Wednesday, April 19, 2023, at Hendricks Regional Health in Danville.

Jerry was born in Springfield, Ill., on June 23, 1944, the son of Henry Martin and Etta Geraldine (Fastenau) Kruse. He was a 1963 graduate of Fillmore High School. After high school he attended Indiana State University.

Mr Kruse was a lifetime member of the Bainbridge Masonic Lodge. He owned operated his own body shop in Bainbridge for many years and was a well-known welder. He was once the owner of the Dari-ette and retired from Roger’s Finishing Tools in 1995. After retirement he began working for D & L Automotive in Roachdale. He loved to restore classic cars, and enjoyed playing guitar and singing.

Survivors include his wife of 30 years, Bonnie Kruse; five children, J.B. Kruse (Karen), Stephen Edwards (Connie), Tessa Kummer (Eddie), Brenda Wisener and Lisa Kruse; a brother, Martin Kruse; a sister, Martha Whiteman (Bob); two brothers-in-law, John Frazier (Sue) and Jim Frazier; nine grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a grandson, Christian Watkins; and a sister, Henrietta Boward.

Graveside services will be held at noon on Saturday, May 6 at Roachdale Cemetery. A celebration of life will follow at 1 p.m. at the Roachdale Community Building.

Memories may be shared with the family at www.BittlesandHurt.com.