John Patrick KRUGER

1928 - 2021

KRUGER, John Patrick February 14, 1928 - April 8, 2021 It is with a heavy heart, that we announce the passing of John (Jack) Kruger. He passed peacefully, in his sleep in the early morning of April 8, 2021. Beloved husband of Patricia for 66 years, and cherished father to Kim (Lester Posen) and grandfather to Leah and Ian (Radinka) Posen. John was the oldest of three siblings and is survived by his loving sister Kathleen Booth, in Australia.. John lived a full and colourful life which was devoted to public service. Born in Australia, he was one of those "Aussies" who wanted to explore the world. In his early teens, he joined the Australian Merchant Marines, moving on to the Royal Australian Navy. After his service, he spent four years (with several colourful adventures, travelling through Europe and exploring) finally arriving in Canada. He joined the RCAF, became a pilot, and moved through the ranks to become a Squadron Leader. Upon leaving the RCAF, and meeting his future wife Pat, John knew he needed a stable income. He found employment in the insurance industry but knew that he wanted more than what the private sector offered. One evening he attended a local ratepayers' meeting, because sewer charges were on the agenda and he didn't have a sewer connection. Although it was his first meeting, after his steadfast stance and questioning of the local councillors, he came home as the President of the West Rouge Ratepayers' Association. He quickly decided that people running for local office had few qualifications especially compared to his portfolio of capabilities. He ran for, and was elected to, the Pickering Town Council. During his second term, John saw an ad looking for an assistant to then Metro Toronto Chairman Ab Campbell. Suffice it to say that the interviews with the personnel department did not go well but Mr. Campbell wanted a "fixer" and offered the job to John. That position quickly transitioned into the first Chief Administrative Officer for Metro Toronto. During his 14-year tenure, he dealt with union matters, took on the roles of Interim General Manager of the CNE, and the O'Keefe Center, amalgamated the Metro Ambulance Service as well as a host of other challenges facing the Corporation. John joined the Province of Ontario in 1985 as Special Advisor to the Premier, David Peterson. Working as the Chair of several Crown Corporations, he brought them in line with the government's objectives. Holding this position until 1993, legislation forced John to retire at the age of 65. He always felt this was "ridiculous" and was glad when it was rescinded for those that succeeded him. In retirement, John focused on his family and family life. His favorite roles during his lifetime were husband, father, brother, and Grandpa. As an example, he started downhill skiing to keep up with his grandchildren, making him the oldest beginner on the hills. And weeds had no chance on his immaculate grass. He was extremely proud of his family and their accomplishments. John enjoyed the last several years with his wife Patricia at the Four Elms Retirement Residence. Many thanks to the staff at Four Elms both for their work with John and their ongoing support for Patricia. John will be missed by all that knew and loved him. May his memory be a blessing to all he touched. A private memorial service will be held at a later date.