IN MEMORIAM: UFCW 655’s Mary Ann Kruse

Mary Ann Kruse (nee Clynes), age 87, fortified with the sacraments of Holy Mother Church passed away on Aug. 17, 2022. Loving wife of the late Thomas Kruse, she is survived by her brother Bob and was preceded in death by her sister Patsy, brothers Tom, Jack and Bill and grandson Samuel. Cherished mother of Kevin (Peggy) Kruse, Edward Kruse, Mary (Craig) Korte, Thomas (Melissa) Kruse, and Daniel (Jodi) Kruse. Adored grandmother of Nicholas (Christie), Matthew (Kerri), Austin, Savannah, Megan, Mary, and Michael, she was also an awesome great-grandmother of four, treasured aunt, sister-in-law, cousin, and friend to everyone.

Sister Kruse was born to Patrick and Helen Clynes on May 15, 1935. She married the love of her life, Thomas Kruse, in 1956 and shared 42 wonderful years together.

She dedicated her life to her family, her faith, and her over 40 years of work at Schnucks Markets. She considered her coworkers and customers her family, and was voted Checker of the Year numerous times.

Attending every child and grandchild’s sporting or school events, she was the best supporter and cheerleader for every milestone of life and looked forward to every single Grandparent’s Day. She never let a conversation end without assuring you that she “loved you more”, which quickly became her favorite catchphrase.

She loved planning and hosting family gatherings, and once everyone else had a plate, she filled hers with lots of sweets. She was the epitome of unconditional love and was the heart of her family. She loved everyone like Christ and will always be her family’s guardian angel.

Funeral Mass was Aug. 22 at St. Ferdinand Catholic Church, with Interment Sacred Heart Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.