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Michael Kreuzer Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Michael Kreuzer
Nancy LaRuffa
December 10, 2008
To the Kreuzer Family -
I met Mike Sr. in 1993, as I was hired to work for him as his secretary at North Shore Animal League. He constantly spoke about his family, and I heard many stories about each of his children. Although I never met Michael Jr., I know from what Mike spoke about 15 years ago, and from all the wonderful tributes I have read, that Michael not only was precious to his family, but also had touched so many others during his lifetime. I pray that each of you will continue to hold dear the special times you had with Michael, and as time continues that only sweet memories will remain in each of your hearts.
Michael 43 Birthday, Den, Jo, Mary & Michael
Denny & Jo Neal
December 2, 2008
Mike, Mary and all of the Kreuzer extended Family,
We have waited for the week before the Celebration of Michael's LIFE to respond to his Guest Book. Both Jo and I will be their in spirit over by the Drink & Food table. Make room!!
The three days in Sept 08 we spent with Mike, Mary, Michael, Ben and Emma celebrating 43 years of Life and Love were very very special for the two of us. It was life at its BEST. We received news from Mike and Mary of Michael passing as we traveled to Missour to be with our daughter and our grand children, we stopped at a rest stop , prayed and shouted Amen Amen. We Share this prayer with all of you at the Dec. 6th Celebration
Thanksgiving Prayer
All to the table, You invite us God
All to the table young & old with our memories of Michael, to the table with our talents and faults, our wealth and our proverty.
You invite us, Dear God
because of who we are, because of who You created us to be.
All to the table, God,
a perfect moment to love those around us, to thank You and praise You for giving us Michael.
All to the table, God
You invite us and welcome us, ad we
Rejoice.
Denny and Jo Neal, Denver, Colorado
Sharon Rust-Bottone
November 12, 2008
Dear Kreuzer Family,
It is so hard to imagine how many chapters have been lived by Michael in the years that we shared our lives at Griswold Street in Glastonbury.
We were children who played, cried, fought, laughed and loved one another. It was as close to perfect chaos as it can be...so many children and so many stories.
Michael will always be part of my childhood story, a shy girl living next door to wonder.
I am proud that Michael was able to accomplish so much...think such interesting thoughts and leave behind his unique and special mark on the world.
My thoughts and heart are with you all.
Fondly,
Sharon
Paul Bengston
November 10, 2008
To the entire Kreuzer family -
I have so many fond childhood memories of your family and Mike Jr.
I was an only child and could not have grown up in a better location - - 112 Olmsted St. - - right next to the Kreuzer house. To me, it was a fascinating, chaotic place that I will remember forever. There was always something going on, always something new in the basement to explore, always something to eat, always a game to be played inside or out, always someone to hang out with and talk to. I have great memories of Joey, Mike Jr. and I playing homerun derby out in the street. Mike Jr. would always hit the most home runs. (Sorry to break the news to you Joey.....) I always enjoyed sitting back and watching the competition between Joey and Mike Jr.
I am grateful for those days and the experiences I shared with Mike Jr. I wish all of you the best as you get through this difficult time.
With love,
Paul Bengston
Patricia (Bengston)Menger
November 9, 2008
Mike, Mary and Family
I was so sorry to hear the news of Mike, Jr's passing. My sincere sympathy to all of you on the loss of a great Son and Brother. There is such a soft spot in my heart for the Kreuzer Family which goes back many years to Olmsted Street. Paul and I were so well received into your family. There was always something happening at the Kreuzer's home where Paul spent many of waking hours. It was not difficult to get a baseball game going with plenty of Kreuzer boys around. Wonderful memories which will never be forgotten.
My prayers are with you all at this difficult time.
Love, Pat (Bengston) Menger
Janet Hay
November 7, 2008
My fondest memory of Mike was back at ECSU in 1985 ... there was a talent show and Mike performed as Bruce Springsteen (of course), Dave Cushman was Clarence and, I think, Mickey Bolduc was there, too... it was the Born in the USA era and I got to jump on stage at the end of Dancin' in the Dark with him "hey baby!" to reenact the music video.... I can't listen to Bruce without remembering Mike. It was like gospel to him. I am so happy that he found love and had such beautiful children and seemed to have had just incredible experiences before he became ill. Michael was a great guy with a big heart. I'm incredibly sorry for your family and will keep you all in my prayers.
Francine Lynch
November 6, 2008
Mike and Mary,
We are so sorry for your loss. Thinking of Michael and what a fine man he was only deepens our sorrow. We have so many fond memories of our friendship especially Thanksgiving dinners, the Family Olympics, and our childrens' weddings. In all of these happy times it was always a pleasure to be with all of you. We, too, miss Michael, who once called us his other parents, more than words can say. May you find solace in your faith and the love of family and friends. Love, Dave and Francine
Jeremy Levesque
November 4, 2008
I got to see Uncle Mike 3 times when he lived in Idaho with Aunt Joanne and Ben and Emma. I loved the way he looked at me with his eyes. When I said hello to him he took all his might to say hello back. It made me sad. I remember going to Astoria Oregon to see grandpa and the others finish the bike trek and my dad and I climbed the Astoria Column. I wanted so much for Uncle Mike to see me throw an airplane over the railing into the trees below. He was a great Uncle and loved him with all my heart.
Jeremy Levesque
November 2, 2008
I was 13 years old when Mike made me an uncle once again. I remember him as a quiet, good natured child who was solidly built. I called him Bruiser Kreuzer. Last September, at his sister Kathy's wedding, that strength could still be seen. It was evident in his eyes and the way he worked through his difficulties. He taught us all how to live life by quietly taking the hand life dealt him and played it the best anyone could. I also believe Mike would say that having his children made him "the luckiest man on the face of the earth."
Our sympathy, thoughts and prayers through this difficult time to the Kreuzer Family.
Love, Pete and Patti
kayla butterworth
November 2, 2008
Uncle Mike ,I'll miss you up in heaven have a good time!
lauren butterworth
November 2, 2008
Even though I did not get to spend much time with you I am still going to miss you. However I am glad that your suffering is over and that you are in a better place now.You were very strong through it all and I hope that you are having fun in heaven.
christian butterworth
November 1, 2008
I always adored him, I always looked up to him, I will sorely miss him. There were very few others in this world I would rather share a beer with.
laurence kreuzer
October 31, 2008
To Uncle Mike, Aunt Mary, and my cousins. I'm so sorry for your loss, I know you are all hurting. I wish the best for Mikes children, and all of you. I miss and love you all very much, and think of you often. Larry
Alicia (Lysa) Denlinger
October 31, 2008
My dear Uncle Mike, Aunt Mary, cousins and your families:
Even as loss becomes inevitable, nothing can ever prepare us for the finality of it. From the sidelines, we have stayed close to your heartwrenching journey, and have been absolutely amazed by your committment to Michael, and your strength in the ever so intricate chore of accepting the most difficult thing a parent, brother and sister can ever endure. Michael was a beautiful heart, eloquent mind and someone we've all learned from on so many levels. We are honored to be part of this brave family, however remote, and look forward to being with all of you in December to celebrate Michael Jr. Until then, we continue to pray you all comfort in that Michael's life is very well just now beginning.
Love you all,
Scott, Lysa, Michael & Ryan Denlinger
Marle Scialla
October 30, 2008
My deepest condolences go out to my grandpa, grandma, mom, Aunt Joann and all my aunts and uncles. I thank God that I was able to meet my Uncle Mike before he past. Originally, when I decided to participate in the Louis and Clark bike ride to help raise money for my Uncle Mike it was because it felt like an opportunity to make up for not knowing him for so long. However, when I met my Uncle Mike at the finish line that summer, I knew right away that it was much more than that. I was instantly impressed because of his positive outlook on life, regardless of the situation. My Uncle Mike is a role model to me in the short time that I got to know him. Our only comfort now is in knowing that he is in a better place. I love you and will miss you Uncle Mike.
Sarah D'Agata
October 30, 2008
this poem i wrote last year in school for a self portrait project:
When I was little
He was able
To hug me back
And say hello
Simply without
Thinking
I saw him more
And he would visit
Us, here
But now I see him
At most
A week out of the year
We have to visit him
Across
The country’
He can no longer travel here
I can hug him
But he can’t hug me
I say hello
And he struggles
To say it back
He talks to me
And asks me questions
But I only smile
Trying my hardest
To understand,
And I always look
At my aunt, his wife,
Or someone who can
To tell me
What he said
I wish he could be
His old self
And the ALS
Could just go away
Along with
The sadness
That fills
Him,
Me,
And my whole family
love sarah d'agata
Lili (Marie) Binette
October 30, 2008
To the Kreuzer Family, my deepest sympathy for your loss, to lose a husband, a father, a son, a brother, an uncle, a nephew and a friend is difficult, but amazing how 1 person can be so many things to so many people....keep his loving memory in your heart always....
Betty Kamais
October 30, 2008
I am so sorry for your loss. Mike was a great person. He will be greatly missed by all. I went to middle school and high school with Mike. It was fun wallking home from school with him
Larry & Theresa Gaffney
October 30, 2008
We enjoyed seeing Mike again last summer in Idaho. We know it is going to be hard for awhile but he is in a much better place. Your family will always have a special place in our hearts.
Larry and Theresa Gaffney
July 2005 - Astoria, OR - Mike's family & friends at the end of his Dad's bike ride for ALS
October 30, 2008
Mike and his son, Ben
October 30, 2008
Mike and his son, Ben
October 30, 2008
Kreuschwanstein (kreuzer duck being)
October 30, 2008
Kreuzer Siblings (mike = rear right)
October 30, 2008
Mike on highest mountain in Germany
October 30, 2008
Mike and Emma 2004
October 30, 2008
with Wife, Joanne at Graduation
October 30, 2008
Mike and friend (Andy Ray) doing what he loved
October 30, 2008
UN-altered pic of Mike and his daughter, Emma
October 30, 2008
Altered Photo of 3 bro's. Look Ma, no hair!
October 29, 2008
Altered Photo of Mike make a funny face. He got a kick out of it
Andrew Kreuzer
October 29, 2008
Mike was my ealiest mentor I had in life. I can thank him for my desire to weightlift more than anyone else on earth. I can remember wanting to be just like him in many ways. I remember seeing him in the bedroom with his shirt off one day and I saw his "wings" (his back muscles) and I said, Damn I need them on me, they look so cool. I can remember the first time I got my hair to part down the middle. (Now I could be cool, just like him) I can remember when I got my first cassette tape player. Now I could listen to all of his tapes on my own radio, he has the best music. I remember practicing baseball by throwing a raquetball up against the Bengston's apartment building for countless hours just so I could eventually hang and play ball with him with confidence(unfortunately, this didn't work). One day I hit a ball (it seemed like 1/2 way) down Beaumont ave, where we lived and It was all because Mike showed me how to swing a bat with power. Man was I proud. At one of my wrestling matches (my first match, actually) I can remember seeing him in the stands. I wanted so badly to make him proud. I pinned the guy in no time and the first person I looked at was Mike in the stands. He had a big smile on his face and that meant the world to me. The point is, that Mike drew me to everything that I know I am today. I really looked up to him, alot. later on in life I enjoyed just being around him and trying to make him laugh because I knew how much he loved humor. It was just so relaxing to be around him. He didn't seem to care who you were or what you were about, just that he was with you and doing something, anything. My biggest regret with my relationship with Mike is that we lived way too far apart for the past 20 years. I would have loved to have been a bigger part of his life as he was of mine (usually in my mind and thoughts). His Spirit is alive and well inside my heart. I love him and will miss him but I have plenty of "fuel" to burn for decades to come. His light will not die in me, ever.
Bruce D'Agata, Jr
October 29, 2008
Uncle Mike, I remember when we all went to Yellowstone Park together when Ben was 4 and I was 7. I thought Uncle Mike was really smart, he knew everything about everything we asked him on the trip. We went to Beartooth Mountains and he showed us where he studied the Pikas, and he told us when was the best time to see a wolf. I will never forget it. He told lots of jokes all the time. He showed us the canyons and where a bear clawed a tree on a hike we took. I remember Scout Mountain, he told us to try and find some birds. He was really smart. I will miss being able to visit him. Love Bruce
michele dagata
October 29, 2008
in the summer of 06 i spent the summer in idaho and i got to know uncle mike very well. i remember how we went on walks with emma and ben down to the store and the park. he was a great uncle to have and look up to. ill remember that summer forever.
Suzanne and Dan Lawson
October 29, 2008
Kreuzer family-Dan was a fellow grad student with Mike when he started at ISU. We shared many stories about the East -(we grew up in PA). We have many wonderful memories of Mike especially playing a harmonica at our prewedding party in 1997. We convinced JoAnn to attend ISU instead of Wilkes for her PharmD. Our son Alex was born 3 weeks before Ben and we enjoyed being first time parents together. We also have a daughter, Gretta, just 8 months younger than Emma.
What a challenging journey for everyone to face and live on a daily basis. We know that Mike is finally at peace and that JoAnn, Ben and Emma have wonderful family memories.
In Sympathy,
Suzanne and Dan Lawson
Tom Kaminski
October 29, 2008
To Mike’s family and friends,
I knew Mike from his time with the CT DRS and from common high school friends. Mike was highly thought of. My condolences and deepest sympathy.
Kristin Blackwell
October 29, 2008
I am so sorry for you loss. I went to EHHS with Michael. He was such a funny guy. We just had our 25th reunion and wished he could have joined us. Siobhan Peng had all of us pose for pictures that she was going to send to him. I hope he got to see all his old friends who were thinking of him across the miles.
My sincere condolences.
dan mallett
October 29, 2008
I didnt really know cousin mike. i met him on several occasions and always felt like he was a very popular, smart person. i did not know how passionate he was about so many things and am glad to learn he enjoyed bluegrass music such as i do.but i did know how much he loved the outdoors according to uncle mike. i wish i could have went on some the camping trips him and uncle mike went on and really have gotten to know mike. i think we would have clicked. i feel real sad that he is gone and for the kreauzers loss.
Maureen Slayton (Rovaldi)
October 29, 2008
Dear Mr & Mrs. Kreuzer, Beth, Gretchen, Joe, Anne, Andy & Kathy,
I send my deepest sympathy at the loss of Michael to all of you as well as to his wife and children.
Your family holds a very special place in my heart and I think of all of you often. I have very few childhood memories that don't include spending time with all of you and many memories of Michael come to mind. I have so many funny memories about Michael because he had such a great sense of humor, but I have a particular special memory of him that really touched me. I believe it was about a year after your family had moved to New Jersey and Michael came over to visit me. He said he wanted to stop in and say hi and find out how I was doing. I was surprised because I had always thought he simply looked at me as Anne's silly little friend who was over the house nearly everyday. I guess I never really knew the depth of Michael until that visit and I am so glad he came over that day. I was blessed to have known him and will remember him with fondness. Michael was a wonderful person that touched so many lives with his kindness and it is so sad that he passed away so young. May God give you strength, comfort and peace in this time of great loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. God bless.
Carole Scialla
October 29, 2008
Dear Kreuzer Family, Ken and I are so sorry for your loss. We did not get to know Michael, well in the last 5 years, but have met him and could see his positive attitude and great smile. In reading the guest book entries, everyone will miss him, he was an inspiration to all that knew him. Our heartfelt prayers are with all of you!
Love, Carole and Ken
Rita Mallett-Ledford
October 29, 2008
Uncle Mike, Aunt Mary and all cousins,
I want to express my deepest sympathy to all of you during this time. Michael will truly be missed. However, his humor, smile and witty remarks will always remain in our hearts. We will try our best to see you on Dec.1st.
Love to all,
Sean Rovaldi
October 29, 2008
Hello Kreuzers,
I am very sorry to hear of your loss. I remember Mike as very quiet, but he seemed like a decent guy and he always treated me fairly, when we would interact. I admit to being a tiny bit nervous back then, due to his being so tall (or was that me being so short?)
I always remember there would be music playing when I would visit the house. It was the first time I heard Pink Floyd and The Eagles--that was probably thanks to Mike as well. I seem to recall him watching MTV with Andy and I at some point.
43 is far too young to go--but I'm sure Mike is "shining on" someplace else now.
michael mallett
October 28, 2008
Uncle Mike, Aunt Mary, And Cousins.My deepest sympathy and sorrows go out to you all. We all just lost such a great and wonderful guy.Michael you will be truly missed.May god bless all of you thru this time.
michael mallett
October 28, 2008
uncle mike, aunt mary,and cousins.my deepest sympathy and sorrows are with you all.we all lost such a great and wonderful guy.michael you will be truly missed.may god bless you always.
Mark Peterman
October 28, 2008
Mary & Mike,
One time that stands out in my mind was the time all of you were flying home for Christmas. Mike was about 4 and he asked you if Grandma had a dog. You said "Oh no, Gramndma would never have a dog" You walked in the house and there was the dog I had asked for, for Christmas. Mike did not want anything to do with it. In the home movies, everyone was on the floor playing with the dog except Mike who was sitting at the table just watching.
Pat, Michael Megan and I send our condolences.
Mark Peterman
Siobhan O'Gorman Peng
October 28, 2008
Whenever I hear the song "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" I think of Michael. I remember how Mike and his friends Fernando, Tony and Bill stole the show during our senior year high school production of "The Wiz" with their performance as The Yellow Brick Road. After college I ran into Mike from time to time in Hartford. Once just after he had come back from a camping trip with his Dad. Mike wouldn’t let a bad case of poison ivy come between him and his love of the outdoors! Years later, when I heard about Mike's diagnosis of ALS, I sent him a note. I was touched and honored to hear back from him, knowing how his time here on earth was to be cut short. I was impressed by how successful he had become academically and professionally, by how he was supported by his caring family even when out west in Idaho, by how proud he was of his wife Joanne and of his children, Benjamin and Emma, and by how he was able to maintain his sense of humor when faced with the hardest of life's challenges. I am grateful that our paths crossed through the years. He will continue to be such an inspiration to me.
Claire & Wayne Gammo
October 28, 2008
Mary, Mike and the Kreuzer siblings,
It seems that we have known your family forever, Olmsted St was the best place to raise a family. We were blessed to know each one of you, all individuals, having so much love for each other, and having the feeling that we were always part of your family. Always having a babysitter available, but my boys really liked when your boys came over. They telll me crazy stories about what happened and how much they looked up to them. Especially Mike because he was taller than them. Michael had a special place in Wayne's heart, the time he worked with him and how much Mike taught him about enjoying life and how to laugh with others and at yourself.
There are no words that can express how much our hearts are broken over his passing. But have comfort that he is in a better place, no more pain, no more dissabilities and everyone can understand what he is saying. I am sure he has many jokes for all his grandparents.
We love you all very much,
The Gammo's
Rosanne Hornyak
October 28, 2008
Mike, Mary & family
To loose a son/brother before his time is a sadness that cannot be fathomed. It reminds us of how fleeting life is and how we should count our blessings daily. We are filled with sorrow and grieve with you. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Love, John and Rosanne
Carolyn Albert
October 28, 2008
I am so sorry to hear of your brothers passing. My thoughts and prayers are with the family at this difficult time.
Mick Bolduc
October 28, 2008
I had the pleasure of knowing Mike since our freshman year of high school. He taught me many things thru the years the most important of which was to follow your dreams and to live life to the fullest.
Throughtout the course of his illness I never heard him complain or ask "why me"..The dignity, spirit, and tenacity he showed each day in fighting this horrible disease was a true inspiration to everyone he met. I am proud to have known Mike and even prouder to have been able to call him one of my best friends. Mike you will be missed by the many lives' you touched. Be well my friend. I am sure I will see you again someday.
Victor D'Ascenzo
October 28, 2008
Mike, Mary & Family,
May God continue to shine his love and grace on the entire Kreuzer family.
Warm Regards,
Vic D'Ascenzo (Fairfield, CT)
Kristen Mallett
October 28, 2008
Aunt Mary, Uncle Mike & the Kreuzer cousins,
I never had the fortune of meeting Michael Jr. as I regretfully missed Kathy's wedding last year. However, I sit here in tears feeling the loss for you and all those who's lives he's so obviously, positively touched. God has a purpose for all our lives. It's clear to me that Michael had great impact on those he knew. I pray that thinking of these wonderful memories everyone has shared will keep you all strong during this most difficult time.
My thoughts and heartfelt prayers go out to all of you.
Kristen Mallett
Erny & Edwina Levesque
October 28, 2008
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Gina Bourque
October 28, 2008
I used to work with Gretchen and although never met Michael, I felt like I did because of all of the wonderful stories Gretchen would tell about her brother she loved so much. A few years ago, Gretchen invited me to to join the Kreuzer Family team for an ALS Walk. The Love and support Michael's family and friends showed for him was beautiful and heartwarming.
Gretchen and Kreuzer Family, I am so sorry for the loss of Michael. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Christina Evers
October 28, 2008
Uncle Mike, Aunt Mary, and all my super awesome cousins, I am so sorry. Michael is going to be so greatly missed. I have been truly blessed to have him as a cousin. My deepest thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Gretchen Levesque
October 28, 2008
Michael was my brother and friend - I have missed him since he left Connecticut to continue his education in Idaho. I miss the times he’d come over to Rod’s & my place to have a beer and play darts. He was with me and his friends when I first met Rodney Thanksgiving night in 1990 at the Russian Lady Café. Good memories! Mike was such a fun person to be around, laughing with him was always easy. In high school Dr. Demento was a favorite - comedy and song rolled into one. As teens Mike was always wanting us to listen to a new song he discovered. Memories of growing up with Mike are ones I have cherished and will continue to cherish for the rest of my life. After high school we remained close. I remember when he popped in with a surprise visit to my dorm in college, taking a bus from his school; then walking a mile to my school. I felt so special. That’s what Mike did, he made you feel special. Years ago when he was at my place goofing with my step-kids he brought over a volley ball that he had painstakingly written in on the lines of the ball the names of Greatful Dead tunes, telling Shaun if he could count the number of songs on the ball he would give him $10. I can’t recall if Shaun actually got the $10, but it’s a fun memory. Rod says he thinks he still has the ball. Our son Jeremy thought the world of him. Mike loved Star Wars and when Jeremy discovered the saga he thought he had a really cool connection to his uncle. Jeremy was so sad when Mike got sick and prayed for his uncle every night before bed. Our hearts ache with an emptiness that can never be filled, but knowing Mike is no longer suffering does soften the pain. We love and miss you Mike.
His loving Sister and family Gretchen Rodney and Jeremy Levesque
Ellen & Mike Juenger
October 27, 2008
Mary, Mike & Family,
Our heartfelt condolences and prayers go out to all of you during this most difficult time. Mike was such a wonderful guy! He literally lit up a room with that great smile and sense of humor. May all the wonderful memories we all have keep him close.
Love to all,
Ellen & Mike
Kim Zordan
October 27, 2008
To the Kreuzer family,
I knew Mike when he worked at DRS. He was such a wonderful and helpful person with a great sense of humor.
Mr. & Mrs. Kreuzer, you raised a fine young man who had many accomplishments. You're in my thoughts and prayers.
My deepest sympathy,
Bob Kreuzer
October 27, 2008
To Uncle, Mike, Aunt Mary and the rest of the Kreuzers- I hadn't seen Mike since Grandma Kreuzer's funeral and have felt very sad since then as I knew he was struggling with this horrible disease. Although I am even sadder at this moment for his loss of his short life and the terrible blow to his immediate family, I am comforted by the fact that he is in an infinitely better place than this one. My prayers for all..
Bob Kreuzer
Karen Skinner
October 27, 2008
To the D'Agata and the rest of the Kreuzer family - I didn't know Mike Jr. either, but I feel like I knew him after reading all of these wonderful thoughts, especially the one from Lori-Anne Swayze, his hospice worker. It sounds like Mike touched so many lives, both when he was healthy and after he was diagnosed with ALS. He was called away much too young. My thoughts are with are with his entire family during this difficult time.
Amie Bushway
October 27, 2008
Aunt Beth & family,
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you.
Elissa and Anthony Vitale
October 27, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Kreuzer family at this most difficult time. Although words cannot lessen your pain, we hope that you find strength in each other. May your memories of Michael Jr. live in your hearts forever. Our deepest sympathy.
Gretchen Levesque
October 27, 2008
Michael was my brother and friend - I have missed him since he left Connecticut to continue his education in Idaho. I miss the times he’d come over to Rod’s & my place to have a beer and play darts. He was with me and his friends when I first met Rodney Thanksgiving night in 1990 at the Russian Lady Café. Good memories! Mike was such a fun person to be around, laughing with him was always easy. In high school Dr. Demento was a favorite - comedy and song rolled into one. As teens Mike was always wanting us to listen to a new song he discovered. Memories of growing up with Mike are ones I have cherished and will continue to cherish for the rest of my life. After high school we remained close. I remember when he popped in with a surprise visit to my dorm in college, taking a bus from his school; then walking a mile to my school. I felt so special. That’s what Mike did, he made you feel special. Years ago when he was at my place goofing with my step-kids he brought over a volley ball that he had painstakingly written in on the lines of the ball the names of Greatful Dead tunes, telling Shaun if he could count the number of songs on the ball he would give him $10. I can’t recall if Shaun actually got the $10, but it’s a fun memory. Rod says he thinks he still has the ball. Our son Jeremy thought the world of him. Mike loved Star Wars and when Jeremy discovered the saga he thought he had a really cool connection to his uncle. Jeremy was so sad when Mike got sick and prayed for his uncle every night before bed. Our hearts ache with an emptiness that can never be filled, but knowing Mike is no longer suffering does soften the pain. We love and miss you Mike.
Gretchen Rodney and Jeremy Levesque
Suzi Wahl (Dahms)
October 27, 2008
Bill and I had the pleasure of meeting Michael, Jr., when we rode alongside his father into Astoria, Oregon, the end of the Lewis and Clark Trail. All I can say is that getting to know the Kreuzer family was a true pleasure--it was so easy to feel the love and respect you all have for each other, which I know will help you through this time. Bill and I are honored to have been able to share time with your family and to have met Michael Jr.
Suzi Wahl
Donna Bushway
October 27, 2008
I am so sorry to hear of Mike's passing and send my deepest sympathy. May you find comfort in each other. My thoughts are with you all.
Dawn & Dean LaBrecque
October 27, 2008
We never got the privilege to meet Michael, we only know of Michael through Gretchen and all of the work Michael's parents did for him and for ALS. We are truely sorry for your loss.
October 27, 2008
May your family find peace in the lord.
Larry & Dorothy Kreuzer
October 26, 2008
Mike, Mary & Family:
We are so sorry for your loss. Mike,Jr. was such a great kid - we remember Grandma Kreuzer always telling us humorous tales of him after she had visited you guys. He was so loved and respected and will continue to be with us in our thoughts. Love, Larry, Dorothy & Susie
Lori-Anne Swayze
October 26, 2008
I was one of the hospice aides who was assigned to his case. I was sent to help him with anything he may have needed. We had long wonderful talks for over a year and I was so blessed to have known him. He was an amazing man, full of life and humor. He never lost his fun side, telling me jokes and bringing wild things up on his computer for us to read.We used to make fun of the people who couldn't understand him when he spoke. We would roll our eyes and shake our heads, trying to see who would laugh first. It was such an honor for me to be there for him. I will remember him always. What an inspiration!!
Mike's family
Beth D'Agata
October 26, 2008
My dear brother Michael, words cannot express the heart-wrentching emptiness I feel. There is a hole in my heart and I miss you so so much. So many memories, I thankyou for all of them. The crazy things you and Joe and Andy would do as kids, the college parties and your brew parties, the Spitfire, the well you dug with Bruce, being Sarah's wonderful godfather, the trip to Yellowstone and Munich, your harmonica, and the music you so loved. You were younger than me but I always looked up to you. Sarah idolized you and alot of what she is today is because of you, her mentor for animals and the environment. My children have learned so much from you I hope you knew that. The world has lost a very special, very talented man, and you will never ever be forgotten. Ben and Emma your father was the best. I love you Mike. Always, Beth
marcy mattera
October 26, 2008
We only know of Michael through the great things we heard about him from Kathy. Knowing what a tight knit bunch the Kreuzer family is, I know his absence will be an ongoing source of sadness. Kathy and family, you have our sincerest condolences.
Marcy and George Mattera (friends of Kathy and Sal)
Charlene Minicucci
October 26, 2008
I will always remember the great times we had working together at D.R.S. We had so many laughs and shed a few tears during some trying times. I am thrilled to know you found happiness with your family. My thoughts and prayers will be with your family.
David Lynch
October 26, 2008
To The Kreuzer Family:
Mike and I hadn't been in touch for some time, and during these last few years, as he battled that horrible disease, I struggled mightily with what to say to him. I would sit in front of the computer and try to compose an email and I just locked up. I felt guilty, angry, remorseful. This terrific guy with whom I always felt a close kinship was mostly lost to me, and I felt like anything I had to offer was too little, too late.
Then I saw all of you at Kathy's wedding and I realized that real friendships are not lost to time or distance. I saw Joe and Andy for the first time in forever and it was as if we were about to jump in the pool in your EH backyard or run up to that corner store (it was called "Mike's," right?) for some baseball cards.
Know that Josie and I are thinking about you now. You are our family. Mike was a success in every way and he will be missed.
Jordan Kreuzer
October 26, 2008
As your first niece, I wanted to say that i will always remember you and miss you. Even though I didnt know you very well, I want you to know that you will always be close in my heart.
Sarah (Pace) Deady
October 26, 2008
I had the pleasure of knowing Mike from Elementary School through High School....Mike was friendly, intelligent, down to earth yet very outgoing. Even though we lost touch after High School I would think of him from time to time. I would like to express my deepest and most heartfelt condolensces to Mike's entire family -I hope the days ahead and your quiet moments bring you solace as you reflect on your memories of him. Mike, you will always have a special place in my heart.
Kerry Culver
October 26, 2008
Mike Sr. & Family,
My Dad, Russ Culver, passed along the sad news, Please know that we are keeping you in our hearts and prayers during this difficult time. I know that Mike Jr supported you as you rode across the country and his presence will never leave you.
Fernando Almeida
October 26, 2008
Mike, you were a dear friend to me and I felt close to you even through the miles and years that separated us. I have spoken of you in so many ways to so many people and will continue to do so, as you are truly an example to look up to.
I loved your sense of humor and irony, I admired your tenacious spirit, your encyclopedic knowledge of music and your love of life. To say I miss you now is an infinite understatement. Even the Portuguese word "saudade" pales. But I will always cherish your friendship deeply and know that you will always really be with me...in my memories, in my thoughts and in my heart.
To his family and friends, we will all surely admit how fortunate we were to have spent a few fleeting moments with this great man.
Thank you for everything, Mike!
Marty & Linda Anderson
October 26, 2008
Mike, Mary and Kreuzer Family,
Although we did not have the opportunity to know Mike Jr. personally, the obituary and his parents' comments to us in person have made him seem like a person we have known for a long time..just as we have known his parents since our NIU days in Illinois.
Paul Eagle
October 26, 2008
To my Aunt, Uncle, and all my cousins, I hope you are able to find a little peace during this difficult time.
Mike was an intelligent, witty, loving person. As a young child, I looked up to him whenever we would come to visit. I still have fond memories of visiting Rutgers campus with him while I was trying to decide where to go to college.
My condolences to all of you whose life Mike's touched. He will be sorely missed.
Mike - just prior to his move to Pocatello in 1996
Michael Kreuzer, Sr.
October 26, 2008
Michael - we loved you so. Words can sometimes be so hard to find when trying to convey "emotion." All I can think of is I miss you so much it hurts. I know that you're smiling down at all of us with your wry smile, another of your humorous observations of life at the ready. If the measure of a man's life is how he was viewed by others, there would be no measuring instrument available for the job. I don't think it's hyperbole to say that everyone who knew you loved you. Rest in peace.
Dad
Mike and I - 11/07
Kathleen Vitale
October 26, 2008
Michael will be missed greatly. I idolized him while growing up and always looked up to him for the way he saw the world, people and life. I found a connection with him through Music which was a HUGE part of his life. I think of him daily whenever listening to the radio and certain songs that come on. His memory will forever be with me in this way. I truly am greatful to have known him and grown up with him.
Anne Butterworth
October 26, 2008
Michael I always looked up to you and admired you for the person you were. You had such a wonderful sense of humor , even to the end and you had such an awe and respect for life that was so transparent it allowed me to see it that way too. You will be missed!
Mike and his harmonica
Mary Kreuzer
October 26, 2008
I am so very proud to have had the pleasure of being his mother. Everyone who met Michael loved him.
His children were his life. He followed HIS dream.
bruce chamberlain
October 26, 2008
I was Mikes boss at the Dept. of Revenue Services in the 1990s. I remember him as a bright and thoughtful man who was taken from us much too early. My thoughts are with you.
Donald levesque
October 26, 2008
To the Kreuzer family,
May these words help convey the thoughts of sympathy
so deeply felt yet so hard to exprees.
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