CLAIRE E. KRUSE

KRUSE, CLAIRE E. Dec. 3, 1924 to Oct. 24, 2010 Claire Elizabeth Kruse, a native San Diegan, passed away with her family at her side, at the age of 85, Sunday, October 24, 2010, in La Mesa of Alzheimer's disease. Claire was born December 3, 1924 in Julian, CA to Fred and Margaret (Grand) Farmer. She lived in the beautiful countryside of Julian on the family's apple ranch with her mother, father, and four siblings. Claire graduated from Julian High in 1942. On December 10, 1942, Claire married Albert Hermqn Kruse (a Marine from Ariz.). Together for 56 years with the love of her life until his death October 21, 1999. They shared a beautiful life together in La Mesa where they lived and raised their family, a daughter Susan (deceased at age 46 of breast cancer) and Albert (Al or Freddy) Kruse (married to Toni Kruse). Claire had many talents and interests. A talented seamstress, she sewed her own clothes, and created beautiful quilts. Sewing was therapeutic for her in rough times. She gifted her family with these quilts, the labor of her love, for weddings, births and special occasions. She was a fantastic cook and hostess. Her house was always open to out-of-town guests. She painted amazing pictures of country scenes and lighthouses. She enjoyed her music, good books, bowling, her Bunco group and driving her car. She had many collections. Her clocks were her most cherished. Claire is survived by her son Al Kruse and wife Toni; grandson Corey Kruse; granddaughter Christy Stamper and husband Troy; great-grandchildren Kelsey Kruse and Sean and Allison Stamper; sister Alma Opperman; brother Justin Farmer; and numerous nieces and nephews. Claire had a great sense-of-humor, was loving, caring, generous and devoted. Family was everything to Claire. She loved them all but they loved her more. Known to her immediate family as GG...she was our heart and soul and will be dearly missed by us all. Her funeral will be Thursday, November 4th, at El Camino Memorial Park, 5600 Carroll Canyon Rd., S.D., CA 92121. Viewing from 9:00-10:00 a.m. Memorial service 10:00 a.m. and graveside service following.