Wilbur F. Kruse

Kruse, Wilbur F., 83, beloved husband, father grandfather, architect and inventor, passed away April 24, 2006. Rosary will be at 8 p.m. Wednesday; Funeral mass 11:00 a.m. Thursday both at St. Patricks Catholic Church. Wilbur was born in north western Kansas, on Nov. 4th 1922, to John A. and Kathryn Kruse. He served as a pilot in the U.S. Air Force during WWII in the European Theatre. Following graduation from Kansas State University, he married Mary Teresa Armstrong on Sept. 5, 1949. He lived a rich and full life with his family and many friends and Wilburs appreciation of humor enhanced their lives. He was dedicated to his Catholic faith through service to many national and international organizations. He enjoyed a long and distinguished architectural career for over 55 years, directing his own firm for 45 years. He was the inventor and holder of the K-Vent patent, and manufactured various products for masonry construction. Preceded in death by daughter Joan Holthaus, brothers Msgr. Clement; Marlin and Lee Kruse. Survived by: wife Mary T; children, William J, (Glenda); Thomas J, (Leigh) of Wichita; Peter J, (Janet) of Orlando, Karen of the home; Kathy Tramp, (Rick); Teresa White, (Brad) of Andover; Ann Ecklund, (Terry), of Overland Park; son-in-law, Bill Holthaus of Topeka, twenty-five grandchildren and one great grandchild; siblings, E.J. (Bud) of Haysville; Ervin of Stockton, CA; Alvin of Broken Arrow, OK; Paul of Peru, NE; Larry of Grinnell, KS; Mildred Robben of Federal Way, WA; Eleanor Meitl of Oakley, KS; Alfreda Stephens of Grinnell, KS. Suggested memorials to St. Patricks Church and Wilbur F. Kruse Memorial Education Fund in care of Downing Lahey Mortuary East, 6555 E. Central, Wichita, KS, 67206. Rosary 8:00 P.M., Wednesday, St. Patricks Catholic Church.