Russell R. Krueger, age 84, of 88 West Albert Drive, Manitowoc, died Monday, Jan. 5, 2004, at North Ridge Medical and Rehabilitation Center, Manitowoc. Funeral services will be held at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2004, at Calvary Chapel Mausoleum, Manitowoc. Deacon Kenn Nelesen will officiate. Entombment will follow at Calvary Mausoleum. Russ was born Feb. 8, 1919, in Manitowoc, son of the late Ervin and Alma Ottelien Krueger. He was educated in the Manitowoc School System and graduated with the class of 1936 from Lincoln High School. He married the former Bette Meissner on May 27, 1944, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Manitowoc. Russ worked as a supervisor and die setter at the Mirro Corporation for 33 years. He was also a well-known musician. He was a 50 plus year member of the Manitowoc Marine Band, almost 60-year member in the Musicians Union #195. He also played 13 years in the Green Bay Packer Lumberjack Band. Some of the dance bands he played with were Art Braunel, Earl Berkholtz, Dick Frickie, Rollie Neilitz, Lawrence Duchow and the Red Raven Band, Hans Mueller Combo, Rudy Plocar, Elmer Neubert, Virgil Petska, and many other small combos. Russ also was an honorary member of the Ecumenical Brass of the Holy Innocents Choir; he arranged many of their musical numbers. He was a member of the Eagles Aerie #706 and a member of the Manitowoc Senior Center and played with the Mystic Moods Band. Russ enjoyed writing music, growing roses and playing his trumpet. Survivors include his wife: Bette Krueger of Manitowoc; two sons and daughters-in-law: Gary and Carla Krueger, Appleton; Dennis (Red) and Susan Krueger, Oshkosh; five grandchildren: Traci (Tim) Granberg, California; David (Edie) Krueger, Appleton; Ben (Erin) Krueger, Appleton; Sam Krueger, Appleton; Jared Krueger, Colorado Springs, Colo.; three great-grandchildren: Collin, Megan and Dylan Krueger, all of Appleton; and one sister: Lavern Parkin, Manitowoc. Other relatives and friends also survive. He was preceded in death by one brother: Elwood Krueger; and one sister: Ione Beerntsen. Relatives and friends may call on Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2004, at Calvary Chapel Mausoleum from 5 p.m. until the time of service at 7 p.m. The Jens Family Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the Krueger Family with arrangements.
Herald Times Reporter January 2004