John "Jack" H. Kruse, Jr.

John (Jack) H. Kruse, Jr., age 93, passed away on April 10, 2023. He was born on March 30, 1930, in Angelus, Kansas to John Kruse, Sr., and Louise (Marcotte) Kruse. Jack grew up on the family farm as the third of five children and had many stories of that hard but rewarding life. He enlisted in the United States Air Force during the Korean War-era, serving in Texas, Georgia, England, and Africa. On June 1, 1957, he married Ann Meiwes in St. Joe, Ost, Kansas, and they had three children: Jan, Michael and Karen. Jack was an electronics instructor, job placement and financial aid officer and director, all at the Wichita Technical Institute, retiring after 37 years of service. Always wanting to be involved with church and community, Jack was a school board member at Bishop Carroll High School; cub scout master of Troop 762 for seven years; participated in the finance committee and lecturing, square dancing and Harvest House, all at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. He loved gardening and was especially good at growing tomatoes which he proudly shared with his many neighbors and friends. His quick wit and friendly nature made him a favorite uncle, neighbor, friend, or co-worker to many people. Preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Ann, of 61 years; his siblings, Laurene, Jim, Bob and Mike. Survivors include daughters, Jan Kruse (Bet Lee) of Rio Rancho, NM; Karen Matlick (Mitch) of Wichita; son Michael Kruse (Denise Croix) of Frisco, TX; granddaughter, Amy Matlick (Jordan Smith) of Nashville, TN; sisters-in-law, Sue Dold, Ann Kruse and Mary Jean Kruse; and many nieces and nephews. Rosary will be Sunday, April 16, 2023, at 7:00 pm with Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, April 17, 2023, at 10:00 am, all at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. Memorials have been established with: St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 861 N. Socora, Wichita, KS 67212 and Guadalupe Clinic, 940 S. St. Francis, Wichita, KS 67211. Services in care of Downing & Lahey West Mortuary.