Wayne Kruse

1952 - 2024

WAYNE WILLIAM KRUSE Wayne William Kruse, 71, of International Falls, Minnesota passed away unexpectedly at his home on Sunday, May 26, 2024. Wayne was born September 10, 1952 to long time Int'l Falls residents, Lester and Mary (Armstrong) Kruse. Wayne was a hunter and fisherman embracing the outdoors. In his youth, Wayne "One Wheel" Kruse was a seeker of excitement as an avid motorcycle rider and racer finding success on the motocross courses throughout MN. As he put it, "Speed is good." Wayne went into education, enjoying the challenge and reward of teaching his students mathematics and sciences in the MN education system. He loved and was rewarded when his students "got it". Wayne said you could see it in their eyes. He believed in challenging them and was satisfied when they challenged him. In recent years Wayne spent time in Fargo with Paul, Gin, nephew, Jared and sister, Sandy where he was welcomed into the Fargo AMVETS, attending Veteran and community events and playing and winning at cards. He recently joined the Sons of AMVETS in honor of his father, who had served in WWII and Korea. Back home in I Falls, he enjoyed listening to music too loud, playing cards, cribbage, pool with his dear friends at his apartment, and Bingo at the VFW. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents and grand-nephew, Michael Tveit, of Warroad. He was previously married to Dana Jo Batdorf (Bartheld) and was preceded in death by their daughter, Jennifer (Jenny). He is survived by their son, Allen, of Arizona, grandchildren, Logan, Emma, Marissa and Scott; his recent wife, Nancy Clinton and her kids Sue, Bryce and Tim; siblings, Paul (Gin)-Fargo, Sandy-Fargo and Cindy (Gary) Tveit of Warroad; his wonderful aunts, Jeannie Kollos (Armstrong) and Eva Hansen (Armstrong) and many special cousins, nephews, nieces, and friends. Wayne will be missed; his enthusiasm, his positive attitude, his gift to gab, his smile, his love of life and living life. Yes "Speed is good" and may God speed you now brother Wayne through your next journey.... The family would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers. A graveside ceremony and memorial will be held on Wednesday August 21st at 11am at Forest Hill Cemetery, followed by a Celebration of Life Luncheon at 1pm at Woodland Apartments 1200 Riverside Drive in International Falls. Condolences may be left at www.greenlarsen.com Arrangements are with Green-Larsen Mortuary, Inc.