Ernest H. Kruse, 89, Syracuse, died Friday, Jan. 29, 2010, at Good Samaritan Society-Syracuse. He was born May 3, 1920, at Syracuse, son of Fred and Emma (Wilkin) Kruse. He married Veona Vollertsen Oct. 6, 1943, at Leesville, La.
    A lifelong resident of the Syracuse area, Kruse was a farmer and cattle feeder 30 years; a county heavy equipment operator 12 years and Omaha Public Power District meter reader 15 years. Kruse was a lifelong member of St. John’s United Church of Christ, Syracuse. He served in the U.S. Army from 1942-45 during World War II.  Kruse earned the Purple Heart and Silver Star medals for his valor during combat in World War II. He was a member of Massie-Richards American Legion Post No. 100 and Mid-County Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post No. 5547, both Syracuse; was a past commander of American Legion Post No. 100 and managed the hospital equipment program.
    Surviving are his wife, Veona, Syracuse; daughter and son-in-law, Linda and Jim Dockery, Virginia; son and daughter-in-law, Dale and Nancy, Beatrice; grandchildren and spouses, Major Jason Bolt and Alexia, Willis and Rachel Scofield, and Dacia Kruse and Tai Kruse; great-grandchildren, Ashlyn and Ella Drews, Harrison Ernest, and Warner and Scarlett Bolt; step-grandchildren, Deanna and Jason Rinehart, and Casey and Kim Russman; step-great-grandchildren, Jace and Hayden Russman; sisters-in-law; and nieces and nephews.
    He was preceded by his parents; brothers, Joy and Virgil; daughter-in-law, Darline Kruse; and step-grandson, Brian Engel.
    Memorial service was Tuesday, Feb. 2, at St. John’s United Church of Christ, Syracuse. The Rev. John Finster officiated. Graveside service was at Park Hill Cemetery before the memorial service.
    Pallbearers were: Major Jason Bolt, Willis and Rachel Scofield, Dacia and Tai Kruse and Jim Dockery.
    Marcia Bartling was organist. There was congregational singing.
    Members of Massie-Richards American Legion Post No. 100 and Mid-County VFW Post No. 5547 conducted full military rites.
    Memorials are suggested to the family’s choice.
    Condolences may be sent to: www.fusselmanwymore.com.
    Fusselman-Wymore Funeral Home, Syracuse, was in charge of arrangements.