Gerald Wayne Krueger's Obituary
Gerald Wayne Krueger, born on May 15, 1940, to Hattie and Wayne Krueger, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2026. He leaves behind a legacy defined by unwavering devotion, quiet strength, kindness, and a deep love for his family, friends, and community.
He was the beloved husband of Barbara (Damschroder) for 68 years, a relationship that began as high school sweethearts. Together they created a home filled with warmth, laughter and love for their children Gayle Kovach (Gary), Scott Krueger (Dione), and the late Shawnna Miller (Kevin). They expanded their family for a year as they welcomed Celia Paula Davis, an exchange student from Brazil, who continues to be a part of the family. Jerry's guidance, encouragement and quiet wisdom shaped the lives of his family in lasting ways. He was also a proud grandfather to Jarred Kovach (Amy), Cori Tricola (Jeremy), Alex Kovach, Benjamin Miller, Audrey Krueger and David Krueger. His love extended to great-grandchildren Colin Kovach, Wesley Kovach and Shawnna Vivian Tricola. Jerry treasured every moment spent with his family, and his grandchildren especially enjoyed their grandpa's playfulness and undivided attention. He was the brother of Roger Krueger and the late Darla Rahe (Tom, who survives her).
Besides his devotion to family, Jerry gave back to his community whenever he could. He coached t-ball and Little League and was a Scoutmaster to the Boy Scout troop. He was also an active member of Grace Lutheran Church for 20 years where he and Barb, along with Bev and Paul Johnson lead the youth Luther League for many years. Jerry also filled many volunteer roles at Zion Lutheran Church and and most recently, First Lutheran Church since 2003.
Upon graduation from Harris Elmore High School, Jerry went to work at Riverside Dairy, getting up early to deliver milk. He then joined the maintenance team at Brush Wellman in Elmore, and it was then that he decided to attend the University of Toledo. Working full time to support his family and carrying a full time class load, he graduated with a Bachelor degree in business. He went on to earn a Master's degree through Case Western's MBA program. He spent the rest of his work life in Human Resources at Brush Wellman, Industrial Techtonics, Niagra Mohawk and Lockheed Martin.
Retirement gave Barb and Jerry the opportunity to travel, which included England, Italy, Canada and they visited all 48 lower states. Jerry also was able to spend his new free time working his "dream jobs" as a guard at the Cleveland Art Museum, a starter at Astorhurst Golf Course (free golf) and working in the men's departments of Dillard's and Macy's, using his good taste in clothing to help dress others. He also had more time to pursue his passion for art, not only appreciating art, but painting as well. Jerry had taken art classes at the Toledo Museum of Art while attending UT, and continued this hobby throughout his life whenever time allowed. The evidence of his artistic talents grace our walls to this day.
Jerry will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him, and his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him the most. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 20 beginning at 11:00AM at First Lutheran Church of Strongsville, 19419 Royalton Road, Strongsville, Ohio. Please join us for a light lunch, fellowship and a chance to relive fond memories of Jerry immediately following the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to First Lutheran Church of Strongsville or Cleveland Animal Protective League at https://clevelandapl.org.
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