Richard Henry Kruger

Richard Henry Kruger, 91, of Mankato died July 19, 2024, surrounded by his family at the Pillars. 

A private family service will be held later. Burial will be at Glenwood Cemetery, Mankato, MN. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Mark’s Lutheran Church. 

Richard was born February 12, 1933, in Zumbro Falls, MN to Willis and Johanna Kruger. He graduated from Wabasha High School in 1951 and served in the U.S Army from 1953 to 1955. He graduated from the University of Minnesota with a Bachelor of Science degree in Fisheries and Wildlife Management. 

On September 22, 1962, he married Patricia Ann Thul in St. Paul, MN. 

He worked as a Conservation Officer with the Department of Natural Resources for 32 years, retiring in 1992. In addition, he was an adjunct instructor at Minnesota State University for 15 years in the Department of Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Services. In retirement, Richard was a Bailiff at the Blue Earth County Courthouse from 1993 to 2002. 

Richard was an avid trap shooter. He enjoyed upland game and waterfowl hunting. He especially liked to fly fish on streams and rivers, “feeling that moving water was soothing for the soul.” Other favorite pastimes were carving duck decoys and collecting antique waterfowl decoys. 

He received numerous awards for recognition of his services. Most notably, the Division of Enforcement Director’s award for assisting in rescuing duck hunters on Swan Lake during the Halloween Blizzard of 1990. 

But most of all, Richard was a loving husband, dad, and grandpa. His patient guidance instilled a love for the outdoors and respect for the environment. His family has wonderful memories of many hunting, fishing, and camping adventures. His kindness and integrity was an inspiration for all. 

Richard is survived by his wife of 61 years, Patricia; his son, Bill (Sonja) and their children, Kiersten (fiancé A.J.) and Maria; his daughter, Kathy (Bill) Oberle and their children, Hunter (Kate) Oberle and Grace; daughter- in- law, Elizabeth (Brian) Kruger Peterson and their children, Tony (Maddisen), Alex (Nikki), Alissa (Sean), and Ava (Alex); 4 great- grandchildren; his sister, Darlene McDonald of Wabasha; and many nieces and nephews. 

Richard was preceded in death by his son, Mark Kruger in 1993, his brother, Willis Kruger Jr, and his parents, Willis and Johanna Kruger. 

The family would like to thank Dr. John McCabe, the Pillars Staff, Mayo Hospice, and Pastor Jonathan Bourman.