Dennis Ray Kruse

Dennis Ray Kruse, 84, formerly of Genoa, Ohio passed away peacefully with family at his side on Tuesday, February 21st. Denny was born in Elmore, Ohio on October 1st 1938. He graduated from Elmore-Harris High School and entered the Army where he served as an Intelligence Specialist. In 1960 Denny and his brother, Keith, purchased the business that was to become Kruse Cleaners. Many people in the communities of Elmore, Genoa and Millbury knew Denny from the dry cleaners and the laundromats which the brothers operated for more than 40 years.

Denny married Kathleen Kimmet of Gibsonburg on November 14th of 1959. They spent more than 63  loving years in marriage. He is survived by his wife Kathy, his sister Bonnie (Moyer), his son and daughter-in-law Steve and Karen and his two grandchildren Carter and Sierra. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ron and Elaine, and his brother Keith. Denny also leaves behind a broad circle of friends who are saddened by the loss, yet probably can’t help but smile when they remember his outgoing and genuine personality, his willingness to lend a hand and his fun-loving nature. Nobody liked a good laugh, road trip, a good (or bad) hot dog, or time shared around the table with friends and family more than Denny Kruse.

Denny and Kathy moved to Bend, Oregon in 2022 to live with his son and daughter-in-law Karen. He spent the last year of his life loving and being loved by family, living in the western landscape and mountains that he was drawn to all of his life.

Denny did not wish to have a funeral service, although masses will be held in memorium at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Genoa, and St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Bend on  dates yet to be determined.  He hoped that anyone wanting to make a memorial contribution would consider the wounded warrior project at: support.woundedwarriorproject.org. Arrangements are being handled by the Baird Funeral Home in Bend, Oregon. Please visit www.bairdfh.com to sign the online guestbook.