Marie E. Krug

1934 - 2024

Marie E. Krug

1934 - 2024

Marie Krug, also known as Mel Krug, a woman of unwavering strength, creativity, and compassion, passed away peacefully, in the early hours of January 11, 2024, at the age of 89.

She was married to retired Colonel Robert W. Krug, who started calling her "Mel", her initials at the time, which he assigned as standing for "My Eternal Love". He died in December 2018, at age 96.

Mel's life was a testament to her love for the arts, dedication to justice, and steadfast support for humanitarian organizations.

As the middle child of seven, Mel was born into an economically poor Southern family. Perhaps because of this, Mel embraced challenges with a determination that set her apart. Her tenacity and commitment were evident from an early age, as she emerged as the Valedictorian of her high school class.

Excelling academically, she earned straight A's in her college courses, and was a life-long learner. A student of philosophy and religion, she approached life with a curious mind and an open heart. She was not one to believe just because someone told her it was so; she had to do her own investigations, delving deep into meaning and faith, life and purpose.

Mel cultivated a deep appreciation for art and nature. A prodigious gardener, she could breathe life into any space with her lush gardens and skillfully crafted floral arrangements. She learned silk flower making in Okinawa, and created innumerable bouquets for events, weddings, and galleries.

She began painting seriously in her 60s, creating flowers and still lives, extending her love of beauty onto the canvas.

As a young woman and mother, she sewed all her clothes as well as many of her children's clothes. This transformed into making quilts, a family tradition, her final one completed in 2022.

As an avid animal lover, she supported various animal non-profits and had devoted animal companions over the course of 60 years. She had a particular fascination with seashells, and considered them precious works of art.

During her time as wife of an Army Colonel and for many years thereafter, Mel became renowned as the consummate organizer for the many parties and events she planned and managed, including while working for the First Presbyterian Church of Glens Falls and for the multiple non-profits with whom she volunteered. Her parties were a celebration of life, filled with laughter, camaraderie, and warmth.

Mel's strength was truly remarkable. A seeker of truth, a questioner, and a loyal friend, she faced life's challenges with courage and resilience. However, a stroke altered her life inexorably, leading to the development of dementia. Despite this immense ordeal, Mel maintained her creative sensibility to the very end, a demonstration of the indomitable spirit that defined her.

Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those who were touched by her warmth and kindness; we find solace in the memories of the vibrant, extraordinary woman who enriched our lives. She is loved and deeply missed.

Mel is survived by her sister, Jo Kolar; her children and their spouses: Mark and Kim Krug, Beth Krug, Lisa and Christopher Garlock, Robert, Jr. and Laura Krug, Linda Krug and Ron Fender; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and her beloved poodle companion, Ahlee. The family is deeply indebted to her wonderful long-term caregivers, Lola Swan and Lisa Bombard.

A funeral service will be conducted 11:00 AM, on Saturday January 20, 2024 at the First Presbyterian Church of Glens Falls, 8W Notre Dame Street, Glens Falls.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to World Awareness Children's Museum, Glens Falls Symphony or Best Friends.

Arrangements under the care of Regan Denny Stafford Funeral Homes, 53 Quaker Road, Queensbury.

Online Condolences can be made to the family at www.sbfuneralhome.com.