Ernie Kruse was born May 3, 1920, in Syracuse, Nebraska, to Fred & Emma (Wilkin)Kruse. He passed away at the Good Samaritan Center, Friday, January 29, 2010, at the age of 89 years, 8 months, and 26 days.

Ernie married Veona Vollertsen, on October 6, 1943, in Leesville, Louisiana, and to this union they raised 2 children, Linda, and Dale. He served in the United States Army during World War II in which he earned the Purple Heart and Silver Star Medals for his Valor during Combat. Along with being a Farmer and Cattle Feeder for 30 years, he was a County Heavy Equipment Operator for 12 years, and OPPD Meter Reader for 15 years. Ernie was a member of the Massie-Richards Post #100 American Legion & Mid-Otoe County VFW #5547 both of Syracuse, NE. He was Past Commander of the American Legion Post #100, of Syracuse, NE. Ernie was Baptized, Confirmed and was a Lifetime Member of St. John's United Church of Christ, in Syracuse, NE.

Ernest is survived by his wife Veona Kruse, of Syracuse, NE, daughter & son-in-law Linda & Jim Dockery, of Virginia, & son & daughter-in-law Dr. Dale & Nancy Kruse, of Beatrice, NE, grandchildren & spouses, Major Jason Bolt & Alexia, Rachel Willis, Rachel Scofield, Dacia Kruse & Tai Kruse, great grandchildren Ashlyn & Ella Drews, Harrison Ernest, Warner & Scarlett Bolt, step grandchildren Deana & Jason Rinehart, Casey & Kim Russman, step great grandchildren Jace & Hayden Russman. Ernie also survived by sisters-in-law & nieces & nephews.

Ernest is preceded in death by his parents, brothers Joy & Virgil, daughter-in-law Darline Kruse, and step grandson Brian Engel.

Visitation and Viewing will be Sunday, January 31, 2010 from NOON until 9 P.M., and Monday February 1, 2010, from 9 A.M. until 9 P.M.

Memorial Services (with NO Viewing will be Tuesday February 2, 2010 at 2:00 P.M. at St. John's United Church of Christ, in Syracuse, Nebraska. Burial before hand will be at Park Hill Cemetery. Family suggests Memorials to Families Choice.