Frederick "Fred" Kruse, 60, of Deer Creek, passed away peacefully Sunday, June 29, 2025 at his home with his family by his side.

He was born January 21, 1965 in Chicago to Frederick and Gail (Gardner) Kruse Sr.  He married Theresa A. Weidenhof on August 12, 2006.  She survives.

Also surviving are his parents, Frederick and Gail; three daughters, Valerie (Mike) Tomita, Cara Kruse, Meghan (Daniel) Ehlert; three grandchildren, Magdalene, Jacob, Marilyn; three siblings, Deb (Scott) McDowell, Charles (Laura) Kruse, Monsignor James Kruse; and their beloved dog, Bronco.  He was preceded in death by a daughter, Cheryl Kruse.

Fred was a United States Navy Veteran.  He worked at Illinois State University for 10 years, then as a boiler inspector for over 20 years at Bureau Veritas North America.

He was an avid gardener, enjoyed woodworking very much, having made a couple grandfather clocks.  He will be dearly missed.

Visitation will be from 4 to 6pm Wednesday, July 2nd at Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington.  A Funeral Mass will be held at 10am Thursday, July 3rd at St. Patrick Catholic Church Mary Mother of God Parish in Washington. Burial will be at Ridgewood Memorial Park in Des Plaines, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to T.A.P.S. No-kill animal shelter in Pekin.